By Trevor Lindsay, TNN Bermuda
In the second part of an exclusive interview with TNN, Michael Fahy delves into the complexities and consequences of Bermuda’s solar panel policy — particularly the government’s recent push to install solar panels across multiple government-owned buildings.
Speaking with TNN’s Trevor Lindsay, Fahy pointed to a broader debate: who really benefits from the solar movement — and who may be left behind?
“Back in 2019, the Bermuda government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Rocky Mountain Institute,” Fahy explained. “This is an organization known for its aggressive lobbying in favor of renewable energy. Since then, Bermuda has committed to installing solar panels on 36 government buildings. But what we don’t know — and what we’ve asked for — is a detailed breakdown of which buildings those are, and what the broader implications will be.”
According to Fahy, while the shift might reduce electricity bills for the government, the ripple effects on average Bermudians could be troubling.
“Here’s the issue,” he said. “Most working families can’t afford to install solar panels. So while government entities and well-funded institutions benefit, everyday people may end up subsidizing that infrastructure indirectly. Belco still needs to maintain the grid, keep generators running — one to handle cloudy days and another as a backup. Those costs don’t go away.”
In fact, Fahy argued, the burden of maintaining traditional electricity infrastructure may fall disproportionately on those who are unable to convert to solar — essentially punishing them for their economic limitations.
“That doesn’t sound fair at all,” Fahy said. “We raised this concern during the budget debate. There’s a difference between a good idea and good execution. Announcements may sound great, but the proof will be in the pudding.”
As Bermuda moves forward with its renewable energy agenda, Fahy urged the government to provide more transparency — particularly around the MOU signed with the Rocky Mountain Institute, and what performance metrics are in place.
“People need to know what the government has committed to,” he said. “Otherwise, we risk creating a two-tier energy system — one that saves for some, but costs others.”
The full interview with Michael Fahy is available in two parts on TNN News, with this segment focusing on solar policy and its broader economic implications for Bermuda’s residents.
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