St. Lucia Resources & Usage

Numerous rainforest waterfalls can be enjoyed in Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia’s key natural resources are its extensive forests, beaches, wind and mineral springs which have been shown to have viable geothermal potential.

Several studies, including the drilling of test wells in the area of the Sulphur Springs, have been done and proposals from outside companies have been made but to date, no geothermal energy initiatives have been undertaken. Presently, the island relies completely on imported fuel for the production of electricity.

Studies conducted by a few foreign companies have shown that several locations on Saint Lucia’s east (windward) coast are feasible locations for wind energy production.

The island comprises 616 sq. km. (236 sq. mi.) with 158 km. of coastline. Some 22.5% of the land is currently under permanent crop cultivation with 30 sq. km. of that being irrigated. Another 6.5% of the land is designated as arable for future cultivation.

Of the significant forest resources 13% has been set aside as forest reserves.

The interior mountains feed a number of rivers only one of which, the Roseau River, contains a major damn creating the John Compton Reservoir that supplies a major portion of Saint Lucia’s drinking water producing some 10.8 million gallons (40.9 M liters) per day. There are also 30 smaller treatment plants on other rivers that supply water to various communities in the countryside.