Power returns to Black River on Christmas Day

 

There is a historic return of electricity to Black River, St. Elizabeth this Christmas Day, as power has been restored to the town that was first powered more than a century ago. 

 

This, as the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) fulfilled its commitment to put Black River back on the grid Thursday. 

 

Black River is among parish capitals and major towns that were badly damaged by Hurricane Melissa nearly two months ago.

 

JPS work crews and their overseas partners have been ramping up efforts to restore power to the hardest hit areas, particularly in western Jamaica. 

 

The power company says significant progress had been made, with Black River's restoration as an indication. 

 

David Lewis, JPS Operations Manager for St. Elizabeth, said power has also been restored to nearby areas. 

 

"About 5.30 a.m. this morning the town of Black River was energised. We have areas such as Barbary Hall, Fullerswood, Darkis, and on the Crane Road where we have the presence of electricity. Our key customer in terms of the Black River Hospital, now power is now available to them. Two supermarkets know that power is now available. They are just waiting for them to do their internal checks before they can actually connect to the grid. We have street lighting in the town and North Street and High Street of Black River, power is available and also on a section of Cool Street. Also, power is now available at the police station," Mr. Lewis outlined.

 

The authorities say due to the extent of damage to the JPS network, some areas will not receive electricity until February 2026.