IMAJ

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Vol:48 No. 1 The jourNal of The INcorporaTed MasTerbuIlders assocIaTIoN of jaMaIca 2011 page:4.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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EDITORrosemarie Mchugh Thomas

Editorial Advisersgloria fraserarnold aitken

WrITers / coNTrIbuTorshon. Michael henry

ambassador pamela e. bridgewaterhon. pearnel charles

don Wehbycover artwork by: Md studioVol. 48 # 1, November 2011

IMaj magazine is published once per year It is circulated to readers in the construction industry and affiliated industries. The articles represent the opinions of the writers and are not

necessarily shared by the association.

produced for the Incorporated Masterbuilders association of jamaica. 5 oxford park avenue, Kingston 5.

Telephone: 929-8580/926-8942.

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CONTENTS T h e j o u r N a l o f T h e I N c o r p o r a T e d M a s T e r b u I l d e r s a s s o c I a T I o N o f j a M a I c a 2 0 1 1

news and reviews

features

US AMBASSADOR’S SPEECH AT ANNUAL AWARDS DINNER

ExCERPTS fROM SPEECH BY MINISTER Of TRANSPORT AND WORKS

STAff Of THE SECRETARIAT

INCORPORATED MASTERBUILDERS ASSOCIATION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

THE CHANGE IN PLACES AND fACES AT IMAJ

ExCERPTS fROM THE IMAJ PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS AT THE 2011 AWARDS BANQUET

ExCERPTS fROM SPEECH BY MINISTER Of LABOUR & SO-CIAL SECURITY AT THE LAUNCH Of THE CONSTRUCTION SAfETY MANUAL

CAREER DAY INTERvIEW

INAUGURAL DOMINO TOURNAMENT

SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS TO CHILDREN Of CONSTRUCTION WORKERS

MORE INCENTIvES NEEDED TO fUEL SOLAR REvOLUTION

WIND GIANTS RISING Off BRITISH SHORES

vISION Of JAMAICA’S ENERGY SECTOR 2009 – 2030

DECORATIvE CONCRETE TECHNOLOGY THE INNOvATIvE fLOORING ALTERNATIvE

DAYLIGHTING: ANOTHER SOLAR TECHNOLOGY

EAT YOUR WAY TO PROLONGED YOUTH

EARTHQUAKES, NATURAL PHENOMENA, ADvERSITIES & OPPORTUNITIES.

RENEWABLE ENERGY

christine stephens paul hay

Kingsley Kennedyshawn r briscoe

graphIc desIgN / layouTMd studio

prINTersThe art printery

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In this edition of the Magazine the construction industry theme is “Re-energizing the Construction Industry with Re-newable Energy”. The industry has been hit by a tsunami of economic woes and challenges; which, have caused gross frustration and in most cases depression in the in-dustry. The question then is: “Will the industry have suf-ficient energy to withstand this lengthy suffering?”

Indications are that this industry is vital to the country’s economic development and its downfall in the last four (4) years has impacted grossly on employment, development and the country’s GDP.

Ironically these woes have descended upon the industry just when it was poised to develop a regulatory framework that would foster competition and transparency and en-hance environmental sustainability. We cannot be daunted, as there is hope for positive devel-opment; and while waiting we ought to examine ways we can utilise renewable energy.

In this issue we look at recommended ways Jamaica can develop its energy policies; the partnership extended to us by the United States on our energy policy and how we can go about making it a reality. Private Sector guru, Don Wheby, points out the underutilization of energy utilities by our people: educator Paul Hay advises on the benefit of Daylighting methods in building. Also the 2030 plans on energy by the Ministry of Energy and Mining details how the government plans on embarking on energy conserva-tion.

The construction industry was implored to make the bold step in the implementation of energy conservation build-ings, by fitting energy saving utilities. The purpose of this would be the long term impact - reduction in the country’s energy bill.

The planning for Vision 2030 for Jamaica has taken place within the context of a global recession and as this unfolds, it is likely to affect reduction in the flow of direct investment, difficulty in sourcing financing, reduction in exports and a downturn in earnings from the tourist sector.

Rosemarie McHugh Thomas Editor

Editor’s Note....

The jourNal of The INcorporaTed MasTerbuIlders assocIaTIoN of jaMaIca 2011 contributors

Ambassador Pamela Bridgewater was born in freder-icksburg, Virginia, the daughter of a bank teller and a jazz trumpeter. she has two degrees in political science, graduating with a ba from Virginia state university in 1968, and with the Ma from the univer-sity of cincinnati. her career was initially in teaching, working at Maryland, Morgan state and bowie state universities, and Voorhees college in south carolina, be-fore entering the u.s. foreign service in 1980.between 1980 and 1990 she was posted as Vice-consul to brussels, and labor Attaché/Political Officer in Kingston, Ja-maica. Mrs bridgewater was the longest serving diplomat in south africa,posted as Political Officer at Pretoria from 1990 to 1993, and as the first African-American woman appointed consul general at durban, from 1993 to 1996. here she worked with Nelson Mandela during the transition of south africa from apartheid.

from 1996 to 1999 she was deputy chief of Mission in Nassau, bahamas. she was a member and president of the u.s. department of state’s most prestigious professional development program, from 1999 to 2000, before serving as u.s. am-bassador to benin from october 2000 to january 2003. subsequently she was ap-pointed u.s. deputy assistant secretary for african affairs where she managed the african bureau’s relationships with 16 countries in West africa. she served as diplomat-in-residence at howard university from september 2004 to May 2005. from june 2005 to july 2008 Mrs bridgewater was the u.s. ambassador to ghana.

The Ambassador took office in Jamaica on december 1, 2010.

Hon. Pearnel Charles Minister of labour & social security

born in Macedonia, st. ann.Education: West Indies college, city college of New york (political sci-ence). author, Trade unionist, Vice president bustamante Industrial Trade union.he served as Ksac councillor from 1967 – 1976. he was a senator from 1972 to 1980 and jlp deputy leader from 1972 to 1991. Mr. charles served as Minister of local government and as Minister of public utilities during the period 1980-1993. Mr. charles has served as Member of parliament for the st. Thomas eastern region. he is a seventh day adventist and married to gloria hanson. he has three sons and four daughters.

Kingsley Kennedy is a uK trained professional, and attained a Masters degree in construction engineering & Man-agement. He has a long active affiliation with the IMaj by way of a current associated Membership. for over thirty years he has contributed to the development of jamaica - in education at university of Technology,- in the construction industry as a construc-tor, and project Manager-engineer, having worked on major and minor construction projects all over the island.

Shawn R Briscoe Is a registered and trained professional engineer who has over a decade of experience in electrical power systems. he is currently employed to fosrich company limited as a lighting and electrical engineer with responsibility also for Energy efficient technologies. He is a graduate of the university of the West Indies, st. augustine, Trinidad.

Hon. Michael Henry Minister of Transport and Works

Michael henry was born in spanish Town, st. catherine and is the son of the late lester osmond henry and lucille leon henry. he is an author/ publisher by profession and is chairman of King-ston publishers ltd. he is married with four childrenEducation: beckford & smith and eal-ing Technical college (u.K.)Civic Career: Kiwanis club, jamaica library service board, board of the Insti-tute of jamaica, Kingston cricket club and the jamaica Motoring club.Political Career: 1976 jlp candi-date central clarendon1980 – present M.p., central clarendonhe also served as a Minister of state for Information, Minister of Tourism and agriculture.

Don Wehby is Group Chief Executive Officer of graceKennedy limited. Mr. Wehby first joined GraceKennedy Ltd. in 1995 as group finance Manager. he was appointed deputy finance director in 1997 and in that same year was appointed to the board of directors of graceKennedy ltd. The following year, he was appointed Group Chief Financial Officer and in 1999 undertook the additional role of Chief Operating Officer for the Fi-nancial services division. under his leadership, graceKennedy acquired 100% ownership of first global bank ltd., now a wholly owned sub-sidiary of the company.In 2006, following the reorganisation of graceKennedy he was appointed Deputy Chief Executive Officer, graceKennedy ltd. and chief ex-ecutive Officer, GK Investments. In september 2007, Mr. We-hby resigned from his positions at graceKennedy ltd. and its board of directors to serve for two years as government senator and Minister without portfolio in the Ministry of finance and the public service. he was reappointed to the board of directors of graceKennedy ltd. on his return in october 2009.

he holds both a bachelor of science (hons.) and a Master of science degree in accounting from The uni-versity of the West Indies and has completed an advanced Manage-ment College certificate course at stanford university.

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6 Paul Hay is a jamaican national, the founder and current managing partner of paul hay capital projects: a caribbean project management consultancy, based in Kingston jamaica. They provide strate-gic management and planning services to organizations interested in the planning, design, or construction of buildings in the english-speaking caribbean. he is also a part-time lecturer of building services at the caribbean school of architecture (csa), uni-versity of Technology.

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Christine Stephens is man-aging partner at decor spaces company limited, a construction, renovation and inte-rior decorating firm. Décor Spaces provides unique designs and finishes for residential and commercial properties. she holds the masters degree in business administration (Mba) from florida Interna-tional University and Certification from Inte-rior design Institute. her company partners with a construction engineer company.

In this issue decor spaces introduces deco-rative concrete coating as the innovative flooring alternative.


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President Hugh Burton, Vice President Gentle Wallace, other distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, good evening. I must say I was pleasantly surprised when I received an invitation from the Master Builders Association of Jamaica (IMAJ) inviting me to be their keynote Speaker. I asked myself what I know about Construc-tion. Not to be daunted, I paused and thought about it. Saying maybe this oppor-tunity should give me a chance to explore some ideas with an important sector of Ja-maican Society.

The need to define, educate, identify and ultimately use renewable sources of ener-gy is necessary not only for Jamaica and the Caribbean, but for the United States of America and other major consumer nations around the world. It is a critical issue of our times. Let me therefore focus on what the United States is doing globally and region-ally to promote cooperation in renewable energies.

In the United States there are serious en-ergy challenges as we have too long relied on fossil fuels exclusively. We are aware that our energy demands have grown ex-ponentially over the past 30 years, and we are working hard to find green solutions –some of which Jamaica is considering. The most important objectives the United States would be embarking on are an international partnership which should promote renew-able energy and sustainable development.

To craft such a partnership, President Barack Obama has invited all democratical-ly-elected governments to join the Energy and Climate Ministerial of the Americas, or ECPA, at the Summit of the Americas in April 2009. In the Caribbean, ECPA works to expand energy and climate coop-eration through several initiative; namely to advance sustainable energy in the Carib-bean, The US Department of State in col-laboration with the Organization of Ameri-can States (OAS) will support dialogue with Caribbean energy officials, institutions, and the private sector to explore Caribbean indigenous resources. The initiative will also provide legal and technical advice to governments considering new renewable projects.

The United States Department of State has built four (4) new ‘Leadership in Energy

and Environmental Design,” or LEED certi-fied embassies in the past four (4) years. These embassies have reduced water con-sumption by up to 30%, use on-site renew-able energy for nearly 13% of their energy needs, and have increased overall energy efficiency by 42%. There are plans to con-struct more of these chanceries. Our em-bassy in Kingston has LEED components as well, including use of natural light, Com-pact Fluorescent Lamp lighting, and low-flow water system to conserve water.

Challenges facing Jamaica and the efforts the United States are making in partnership with Jamaica: Jamaica’s National Energy Policy seeks to double the nation’s use of renewable energy resources by 2030, from 10% to 20% of total energy consumption. If the government is successful in meeting this goal, Jamaica would generate nearly 300 megawatts from renewable energy in the next two decades. This would be enough to power roughly 100,000 house-holds annually, or more by some estimates.

Solar and hydropower, wind power, and biomass energy creation play important parts in this effort, as do promotion energy conservation and efficiency. Jamaica cur-rently produces 39 megawatts of wind and much less than that in hydropower, so there remain some 225 megawatts that need to be created in a short time.

This is a very ambitious undertaking, and ambitious policies need to be backed by political will and action to bring them to frui-tion. I hope that 20 years from now this re-newable energy policy meets its aim.

Planning and regulatory initiatives will be of considerable importance in support-ing these forward-looking policies and ini-tiatives. Policy and legislation sometimes struggle to keep up with advancing tech-nologies, but these are areas in which the private sector - including organizations like IMAJ - and the government can and should work closely.

The United States Government will be part-nering with the Jamaican government and Jamaican businesses to promote the devel-opment of renewable energy. The US Gov-ernment has worked closely with the Minis-try of Energy to develop a waste-to-energy project in Jamaica. The US. Embassy and

US AMBASSADOR’S SPEECH FROM ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUET (Read by: Isaiah Parnell, Deputy Chief of Mission for the United States Embassy in Kingston)

Solar and hydropower, wind power, and bio-mass energy creation play important parts in this effort, as do pro-motion energy conser-vation and efficiency. Jamaica currently pro-duces 39 megawatts of wind and much less than that in hydro-power, so there remain some 225 megawatts that need to be created in a short time.

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Ambassador Pamela E. Bridgewater

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The jourNal of The INcorporaTed MasTerbuIlders assocIaTIoN of jaMaIca 2011 nEWs & rEViEWs

the US Trade and Development Agency (USDTA) financed a visit for three Jamaican officials to visit waste-to-energy sites in the United States, and provided technical assistance to the Ministry of design waste-to-energy projects.

In partnership with the U.S. Embassy and the Brazilian Embassy, the Organization of American States (OAS) is providing funding for technical assistance to develop a domestic bio-fuels program in Jamaica. These technical consultants are currently on the ground and have already provided prefeasibility studies to the Ministry of Energy. I hope this can be a launching pad for renew-ing our renewable energy endeavours.

What can the IMAJ do to promote the use of renewable energy? The Masterbuilder’s Association represents all facets of public and private construction. IMAJ members are the builders of com-mercial and residential buildings, highways and other public pro-jects; they have the capacity to promote and entrench a sustain-able energy agenda within the government and its agencies. As the agent for the building industry, the Association must support projects such as the cleaning of rivers, anti-pollution campaigns and to educate future builders in new, sustainable technologies. I implore IMAJ to establish standards that require new construc-tion in the public and private sectors to incorporate the use of solar and other renewable energies. IMAJ members can inte-grate renewable energy in building designs and physical planning processes. The National Housing Trust has a loan program which offers financial incentives for solar energy which I hope many builders will be able to tap into in the near future.

The United States applauds any progress that Jamaica may make toward accelerating regional development and deployment of renewable energy. The United States would like to enhance energy security, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, support sus-tainable development and boost economic growth worldwide.

The development of renewable energy sources will not only reduce dependence on imported oil, but can also provide new employment opportunities in a ‘green’ economy. Increased use of renewable energy will also result in lowering the level of air pollution, ensuring a smaller carbon footprint for Jamaica, and improved compliance with international conventions of climate change.

Increased use of renewable energy could help reduce the cost per kilowatt of electricity, the high costs of which act as a seri-ous impediment to future economic growth and investment in the island.

I am excited by the possibilities of the US-Jamaican partnerships in renewable energies. The US mission stands ready to assist both the Jamaican government and organizations like IMAJ to identify experts who can share best practices and greening initia-tives via digital videoconferences hosted at the embassy. I en-courage IMAJ to make use of the physical collections and the more than 33 million electronic resources available in the embas-sy’s journals, and abstracts of feasibility studies.

Pamela Bridgewater, US AmbassadorMarch 5, 2011


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AWAR

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ANQ

UET

2011

Isaiah parnell, deputy chief of Mission for the united states em-bassy in Kingston delivers the us ambassador’s address.

l-r john Valentine, general Manager jamaica premix; Ian forbes, Managing director sherwin Williams; sandals representative; War-ren Mcdonald, Managing director berger paints ja. ltd.; president of IMaj, hugh burton; alice hyde, Marketing Manager, caribbean cement; dr. carolyn hayle, executive director hearT Trust/NTa and linton snowball, sales Manager century eslon jamaica ltd.

awardees

It is with great pleasure that I was asked to address the gathering at the Masterbuilders association’s annual dinner. after having made the observer’s editorial cartoon earlier in the week, with the cartoon calling into question the capacity of local contractors to do major projects, I definitely need to speak very clearly in defence of local builders, and about the Ministry and the government’s thrust to boost the capacity of the local construction sector.

There were days not too long ago when major construction projects across the island would be dominated by overseas contractors. Whether it was port or airport expansion, highway construction, big bridge construction or otherwise; once the size and complexity of the projects were at certain levels, peo-ple had to come and get it done for us.

but over time and with a sharp change in direction, things started taking a different turn. When I got into office as the Transport and Works Minister in Sep-tember 2007, it did not take me long to recognise the need for, and the opportunity present, in terms of fostering broader capacity among our local con-tractors to enable them to qualify for and effectively compete for the big jobs locally. The thrust has been to get more qualified grade one contractors into the system and, of course, fostering their development to not only serve the national needs, but to also hit the regional stage. such major upgrading and grad-ual exportability at the top, naturally fosters the same positive movement through the various stages be-low, which spells good overall for the local construc-tion sector and more job opportunities for our people.

To successfully compete against the established global players, local firms not only have to develop the required expertise to efficiently implement major projects, but also the organisational capacity and lo-gistical support to, for example, meet very stringent financial obligations to help developers, whether entities or governments, to secure the required in-ternational funding.

so it’s about being technically equipped and having an adequate outlay and support base. These days, top contractors have to be able to meet obligations like bond requirements necessary to effectively match and outdo the bids of overseas competitors.

Importantly, it is all being done now, and on my urg-ing, will be done more and more right here in ja-maica.

ladies and gentlemen, your theme this year is most appropriate. ‘construction – the key to economic re-covery’ is fully reflective of the thrust of the Govern-ment in this time of global economic challenges. de-

spite the general difficulty in accessing international funding at reasonable rates, this administration has done what we were told was pretty much impossible. We have not only been defying the odds in terms of sourcing low-cost funding, but importantly, we have been channelling such funding in the best long-term interest of the country.

I won’t get into the details, only to say to you that my recent visit to china netted commitments for ma-jor funding for some key work programmes across the island, in fulfillment of your theme which you no doubt developed months ago, all on your own, with no input from me. In concert with your own collec-tive thinking as a responsible and forward-thinking organisation, the government is focussing on the broad upgrading and development of the national infrastructure as the key to the country’s economic recovery – your very own theme.

for example, the jamaica road development In-frastructure programme is the largest, most com-prehensive single infrastructure programme to be implemented in jamaica, and will be critical to our national development and prosperity.

It represents a major undertaking by the government of Jamaica to significantly improve the island’s road network to enhance the quality of life of its citizens and stimulate economic development. The pro-gramme is planned over five (5) years, commencing shortly, and ending in 2015.

The realisation of this programme was achieved through an innovative partnership arrangement be-tween the government of jamaica and the govern-ment of china, which has provided funding through

the export Import bank of china.

The amount being made available is us$400 million (approximately j$36 billion), and this will facilitate much-needed work on the island’s network of roads, bridges and drains. Note that parochial as well as main roads will be addressed under this programme.

In summary, the programmer will facili-tate:• Increased driver comfort along the roads• Improved road safety• Increase capacity of roads to handle vehicular

volume• Improved traffic management in town/city cen-

tres• rehabilitation of approximately 300km of paro-

chial roads• rehabilitation of approximately 270km of main

roads• better periodic maintenance of roads

In respect of another critical chinese-funded project, the palisadoes peninsula shoreline protection and rehabilitation programme, a total of 4,375 metres (approx. 4.38 kilometres) of the roadway will be wid-ened by a minimum of eight metres, to a maximum of 12 metres in some sections, to accommodate an increase in the existing number of driving lanes from two lanes to four lanes. This is in anticipation of the prospect of future development of port royal and the Norman Manley International airport. In addition, the road will be raised from its existing levels of 0.6 – 1.0 metre, to 2.4 - 3.2 metres above sea level.The new design also includes:• additional rock revetment works along 3,601

metres (approx. 3.6 kilometres) of the harbour side;

• drainage facilities along the roadway at the caribbean sea side to enhance social ben-efits, such as facilitating walking and jogging on either side of the roadway and cycling on one side.

• a lay-by with bench along the roadway, as well as eighteen (18) solar-powered street lamps placed at 200 metres apart along the harbour side.

• and in case it is thought that in our develop-ment focus we have simply been following the leads of groups like yours, then we would have been following such leads for quite some time. This is because of the number of major infrastructural projects that are now completed and slated for official opening and commission-ing across the island as part of what I am now boldly declaring to be ‘our TheMe’ – ‘con-struction – the key to economic recovery’.

Hon. Michael ‘Mike’ HenryMinister of Transport and Works


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ExCERPTS FROM SPEECH BY THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT & WORKS

first we go to bridges: from Waterloo road in st. Andrew, to Springfield in South West Clarendon, Fairfield in St. James, to Green Island in Hanover, are newly constructed bridges waiting to be officially opened. at the same time we are about to sign a con-tract for the construction of the four-lane dry river bridge at harbour View, st. andrew, to replace the two-lane bridge that collapsed there during the pas-sage of Tropical storm gustav in august 2007.

recently, we broke ground for the expansion of the Washington boulevard corridor in st. andrew, with a six-lane facility running from the Molynes road intersection to the dunrobin avenue/constant spring road intersection.

In st. Thomas, we just signed a contract for con-tinued river training works for the yallahs river, and further out at roselle, a major project is ongoing in respect of necessary sea defence works.

In the second city, Montego bay, work is ongoing on the expansion of the bogue Main road, a major gateway in and out of the city, into a six-lane facility, from the present two lanes, which have long had a bottle-neck effect on the flow of traffic into and out of the city.

Then in the very heart of Montego bay, the National Works agency, with support from other public sector partners, recently mounted all of 22 signalised (traffic

lights) intersections to regulate the once chaotic flow of traffic in the city centre. Complementing that pro-ject is a surveillance apparatus for both traffic regula-tion and public order purposes, something which is gradually becoming a staple diet across the country.

but with all good things usually come some unde-sirable bits of unnecessary challenge. I say this in respect to the new challenges being presently en-countered with geotechnical studies which were not adequately done in respect of the increasingly myste-rious Mount rosser leg of the highway 2000 network. When you decide that you are going to start construc-tion in the middle of a highway, close to home, so to speak, and you are hell-bent on running with it at all cost, it is not surprising that the project later runs into multiple roadblocks.

I had inherited a project which was supposed to be all systems go, but every time things are looking up, something that was not done properly surfaces, no doubt because of the haste and personal expediency which obviously dictated both the pace and policy of someone before my time.

Suffice it to say, new problems have emerged with the Mount rosser project, this after extensive and costly efforts were considered to remedy the untidy situation which we inherited. likewise, we are pres-ently experiencing extensive challenges along seg-ment Three of the North coast highway running from

ocho rios to port antonio. The project, which was designed and implemented by overseas contractors, was stretched way too thinly to ensure it reached port antonio. In focussing almost entirely on the roadway itself, and not the supporting infrastructure, based on the then government’s directive, the project has made numerous homeowners along the way worse off as a result of the new roads being in place. for ex-ample, water is now being routinely dumped in their yards from the roadway.

To correct these emerging de-sign problems will cost the coun-try some US$60 million more, all because of mismanagement in the first place.

I have given you dosages of both the good and bad in respect of the construction sector. Importantly though, I have completely accepted, endorsed and claim as my own, your theme this year. hence all I am left to do is congratulate you as individuals, and the organisation on a whole, for the spirited focus that your theme demonstrates, which no doubt emerged from the cohesive, careful and productive thinking that is expected of a masterful organisation, acting in the best interest of our beloved country.

Michael henry, Minister of Transport & WorksMarch 6, 2010

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Miss scarlett is one of the longest serving staff members at the secretariat. With 29 years at the association she has watched the growth and development of the association, hence it was not surprising when she expressed joy and a great sense of pride in working with the IMaj. she is a past student of denham Town high school. her hobbies are singing, sewing, cooking and baking.

Ms. oreta brooks has been a member of the secretariat since 1993. during this time she has excelled by furthering her studies and has worked her way from clerk to the acting sec-retary/Manager. she is presently pursuing her bsc in business administration with accounting and finance Major at the university college of the caribbean (ucc). oreta may be regarded as the “heartbeat” of the association, as she carries out her tasks diligently. she has served under seven presidents and continues to move forward with the association despite the chal-lenges. her hobbies are cooking and baking.

pervis rogers joined the staff in 2005 as a Technical co-ordinator in the resource centre. he brought to the as-sociation many years of experience in the construction and Architecture field. He holds a diploma in Construc-tion Technology from conestoga college of applied arts & Technology in canada. his role is to interact with the public on matters pertaining to construction; for instance, giving advice to home owners who are doing addition to their homes, and advice to technical schools and hearT students who wish to do a career in construction indus-try. he acts as mediator to some construction workers who may have problems with their employers, in particu-lar wage claims. Mr. rogers has one daughter and he enjoys watching cricket and listening to music.

Ms. Natasha duncan is the clerical assistant at the secretariat since 2007. she is a past stu-dent of st. catherine high school. her respon-sibility includes maintaining and reporting on the tenants’ accounts. she worked along with the editor on the magazine by soliciting and mar-keting the association’s products. she is the mother of two children. her hobbies are playing netball and listening to music.

oreta brooks, acting secretary/Manager

Mrs. Michelle emanuel has been a part-time accountant at the secretariat since 2003. she has been seconded from coopers & as-sociates ltd. With twenty-three (23) years’ experience in the accounting field, she brings to the association a wealth of experience. She has a certificate in Management and the bsc accounts from uWI. The mother of two daughters, her hobbies are reading and lis-tening to music.

STAFF OF THE SECRETARIAT

Natasha duncan, clerical assistant


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The jourNal of The INcorporaTed MasTerbuIlders assocIaTIoN of jaMaIca 2011ProfilE

Miss Tamara grant joined the IMaj staff on august 15, 2011 as an administrative assistant. she graduated from the university of the West Indies in 2010 with the b.ed in primary education. her hobbies are: reading, photography and travelling.

Michelle emanuel, part-time accountantlavern scarlett, Office Attendant

pervis rogers, Technical coordinator (part-Time) Tamra grant, administrative assistant

at the annual general Meeting of the Incor-porated Masterbuilders association of ja-maica the Officers for the year 2011 - 2012 were elected. Twenty seven (27) members attended the meeting, representing twenty six (26) companies. Mr. hugh burton was elected unopposed as president; he is the twenty-third president of the association since. Mr. gentle Wallace was elected 1st Vice president and Mr. calman barrett as 2nd Vice president.

Mr. Burton thanked members for the confi-dence shown in electing him as president of the association. special thanks were ex-pressed to Immediate past president ray-mond cooper for his support and coaching which should help him to prepare for the challenges ahead.

he said that he was aware of a number of outstanding issues that must be taken up as soon as he his feet hit the ground. some of these being: the contractors levy, issue of bonding, the lien law, implementation of a construction Industry policy, the Ncc re-registration policy. he added that an early meeting must be set to attack some of the problems being experienced on these issues, also the invasion of the chinese contractors on the island.

Mr. burton disclosed to the meeting that the jIc negotiations were about to be con-cluded and that members would be notified accordingly. he also informed the meeting that the association had been advised that the government is seeking to unilaterally

impose a new form of contract document. This matter, he said, would be investigated as such a move would be less favourable to the contractors.

In closing he appealed to members to serve on the various committees and looked for-ward to their full support and cooperation.

The following members were elected to serve on the executive council: (Messrs.) Milton baker courtney costley Ken cole jassel dunstan jerome gayle humphrey Taylor(Mrs.) rosemarie Mchugh. Thomas

INCORPORATED MASTERBUILDERS ASSOCIATION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

HELD ON FEBRUARY 1, 2011


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lavada carruthers’ sojourn at IMaj came to an end on friday august 15, 2011, hav-ing served the association for 4 ½ years as secretary Manager. she has made an indelible impact on the association with restructuring and marketing. she will be truly missed. Not to worry, she is just ‘next door’ and is willing to offer assistance to the association if needs be. (l-r Mr. calman barrett, 2nd Vice president, Mr. hugh burton, president

and Mr. gentle Wallace, 1st Vice president)

The jourNal of The INcorporaTed MasTerbuIlders assocIaTIoN of jaMaIca 2011nEWs and rEViEWs


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I am deeply honoured and humbled by the expression of confidence that the members of the Association have bestowed upon me to serve as president. As I accept this re-sponsibility, I would like to acknowledge the tremendous assistance I received from the immediate past president, Mr. Raymond Cooper while understudying him. Com-mendation must be extended to the previ-ous past presidents of the Association for their exemplary stewardship and distin-guished leadership over the years.

This year 2011 has been approached with much anxiety with the continued global re-cession that has affected not just the con-struction sector but the entire country. We at IMAJ have our part to play as a corner-stone institution within our nation. We rep-resent a sector that employs over 200,000 persons and contributes approximately 10% of GDP.

Our theme this year is “Re-energizing the Construction Industry with Renewable En-ergy” hence we intend to renew our efforts and work with the government to have the Construction Policy become a reality. We have invested many long hours and have had many industry-wide meetings on this policy.

EducationAs we focus on education, we will continue with renewed energy to work with HEART Trust/NTA to ensure the continuity of cer-tification of our work force to international standards. In addition to the University of Technology (UTech) there are other in-stitutions that are now offering courses in construction. This is a significant improve-ment in recognition of the industry, and we at IMAJ have established links with these institutions and have offered scholarships. The Association’s Resource Center has been running courses, with the most re-cent one being Blueprint Reading, and we intend to offer this course to High School students during summer holidays.Over the years, the IMAJ has made ster-ling contribution to education and train-ing, and with the able assistance of some organizations who have been loyal with their contribution we are proud to recog-nize some of them tonight. Through our successful scholarship programme which started in 2004, hundreds of Jamaican school children have benefited, both from

the rural and corporate area schools. The programme is now being re-energized and this year we hope to provide scholarships and grants to the tune of one million dollars. We thank those persons who have worked with us over the years and use this oppor-tunity to invite contractors and other private organization to join us in our efforts. Please rest assured that this effort is worth every cent that is contributed.

The National Contracts Commission Policy & Employment in the Sector.Recent report showed that PIOJ states that the economy continues to decline and the statistics show that unemployment rates are increasing, indeed this is not comfort-ing. Another major part of our concern at this point is the re-registration process that the National Contracts Commission (NCC) has instituted. Contractors are questioning the need for this additional process. Appli-cations for re-registration are now taking an inordinate amount of time to be processed and we are concerned that this will cause hindrance to contractors. Work contracts occupied 52% of NCC endorsed contracts in 2009 yet in the Office of the Contractor General’s 2009 Annual Report they stated that “In light of the downturn in the con-struction industry, works contracts which had consistently accounted for the major-ity of NCC endorsed contracts over the years, has experienced significant reduc-tions in 2009.” I remind the Minister that the government is the major employer of contractors; hence they ought to find ways to jump start the industry this year. So with renewed energy, we will continue to work with government to address industry is-sues.

Change in PoliciesIn re-energizing the industry, the IMAJ wants to see the government policies that will make life simpler for the contractors to avoid haemorrhage in the industry. In an environment where TCC is required for both NCC registration and contract award, we would like to see:

1. Revision of the Contractors Levy whereby the unused portion be carried forward, for instance, some could be used against statutory deductions.

2. The enactment of a Lien Law Legisla-tion to protect local contractors who work as sub-contractors.

3. Put in legislation where all foreign con-tractors coming to work in Jamaica, be registered with the Ministry of Labour or the Incorporated Masterbuilders As-sociation; put up a Bond payment.

4. Assistance in the procurement of Bonds for the local industry, which is currently being strangled by the una-vailability of affordable bonds. This is due to the high cost of bonds and lev-els of collateral, a major concern.

5. The implementation of the construction Industry Policy. The necessary pro-cess to implement this policy should bring about radical changes and con-tinuous improvement in the way the construction industry operates. The Association has grappled with these issues for decades and we are deter-mined to find a workable solution.

The Way Forward These are difficult times. The construction industry continues to show a decline in ac-tivity. We need to put a plug on this decline and come to the realization that construc-tion is the key to economic development. We must, like other countries around the world, see construction as a catalyst to de-velopment. This industry employs a large majority of persons who would normally be considered unemployable in many other in-dustries.We enjoy a very good partnership with the Trade Commission at the Canadian High Commission and have been given the op-portunity to participate in Trade Shows and Seminars that have benefited the Member-

ExCERPT FROM THE IMAJ PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS AT THE 2011 AWARDS BANQUET

Mr. Hugh Burton, President IMAJ

Continued on page 14

O N T I M EO N B U D G E TO N T A R G E T

O N T O P O F I T

9 Saxthorpe Avenue, Kingston 8, Jamaica, W.I. Tel: [876] 925-6523, 925-4759, 925-4116, Fax: [876] 924-0657email: [email protected]

Tri-Star Engineering Co. Ltd.Building & Civil Engineering Contractors

Scotiabank Group Financial Centre132 Constant Spring Road, Kingston 8

ship of the Association. IMAJ intends to forge partnerships with the US Embassy so that our local contractors and our counterparts in the US can establish meaningful relationships that will enhance the growth of the local industry.IMAJ recognizes the global trend towards renewable energy and will be pursuing this alternative source in earnest as we strive to reenergize the industry. Renew-able energy is currently an important glob-al issue and will remain so for the foresee-able future due to the decline in fossil fuel

reserves and high economic and environ-mental costs. We note however, that this new global resurgence and growth in the alternative and renewable energy sector poses new challenges and requires tech-nical and professional expertise. I have seen where the United Kingdom govern-ment has suggested taking the use of re-newable energy into account when plans for new housing developments are being considered. The Housing Corporation in Canada has also done extensive work in this area. We look forward to similar

initiatives here in Jamaica followed by the facilitation of funding opportunities.

President’s AwardA feature of our Annual Banquet is the President’s Award where we award non-builders for their contribution to the con-struction industry. Over the years, indi-vidual and collective contribution to nation building has not been limited to building and civil works. Some have chosen to use education and training as their vehicle for altruism.

I congratulate our worthy awardees who have given so much for the de-velopment of our young minds and for the development of the industry and the nation. We urge you to continue the good work for the betterment of our country.

Hugh Burton, IMAJ President

ExCERPT FROM THE IMAJ PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS AT THE 2011 AWARDS BANQUET CONT’D


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The jourNal of The INcorporaTed MasTerbuIlders assocIaTIoN of jaMaIca 2011nEWs and rEViEWs

CONSTRUCTION JOKES!!!!

Mitch is working at the site, pushing a plank through the buzz saw,

when he accidentally shears off all ten of his fingers. He manages to drive himself to the nearest hospital’s emergency room.

The doctor takes one look at Mitch’s bloody stumps and says, “Oh my gosh, reattachment surgery on so many lost digits has never been at-tempted before! But don’t worry, I’m the best surgeon in the hospital, give me the fingers, and we’ll get to work.”

Mitch says, “I haven’t got the fingers.”

The doctor looks flabbergasted. “What do you mean, you haven’t got the fin-gers? It’s the 21st century! We’ve got microsurgery and all kinds of incred-ible techniques. I could have put them back on and made you like new. Why didn’t you bring in the fingers??”

Mitch says, “Well, Doc, I couldn’t ex-actly pick the freaking things up!”

Continued from page 12

I am indeed happy to be here on this significant occa-sion to launch the safety Manual for the building and construction industry.

This manual is timely. It speaks specifically to the protection of workers, placing the responsibility of safety in both the hands of the worker and the em-ployer. We must curb the incidents of injuries by ensuring that workers are provided the necessary safety gears. Workers must take the initiative to wear safety gears and where they are not provided, demand them.

safety at the workplace cannot be over emphasized. We know that many of our workers are exposed to sustained risk in their daily operations. adaptation of safety measures ensures safety of the worker’s life. We must begin to see safety at the workplace as a core value of the labour market.

There is urgency for much more to be done by the construction industry to prevent the rising trend in the number of fatal accidents. like other countries throughout the world, the construction industry contin-ues to be among the most hazardous workplaces in jamaica. In 2008 the Ministry of labour and social security through its occupational safety and health department inspected 262 buildings compared to 258 in 2009. There were 48 accidents and 3 fatalities in 2008 and 3 accidents in 2009. We note the reduction in accidents in 2009 and must give thanks that there were no fatalities in that year; and so we must con-tinue to work assiduously to minimize this possibility.

recognizing the need for public education and ap-preciation of the issues, our occupational health and safety department in 2007 launched an osh blitz in the construction industry to heighten awareness and clean up the breaches . over 20 construction sites were cited for serious breaches and over 1000 minor infractions were identified and addressed.

We have partnered with the industry and provided consultation for the formulation of the manual being launched here today. We believe that the document has the scope to help the industry score high levels of safety and be numbered as one of the best in the world.

jamaica takes the safety of workers seriously and as such relies on the factories act and in particular the building operations and Works of engineering construction (boWec) regulations, as legislations providing the standard for safety and health on con-struction sites.

progress is being made in respect of the new oc-cupational safety and health bill which is to replace the factories act. under this act, updated osh laws and regulations to govern construction works will be promulgated. This will have far reaching impact on the provisions for osh on construction sites in ja-maica. The Ministry of labour and social security is looking forward to working with the organizations representing both the industry and the workers to compliance and ensure success in this matter.

While the Ministry of labour and social security makes regular visits to construction sites, it be-hoves everyone to conduct their own audits. This will help to en-sure that all the components of the safety management system are in place and provides the opportunity to carry out evalu-ations. I would like to stress that investments in measures to enhance safety standards in the workplace will yield high re-turns. first, it will demonstrate the company’s serious care and concern for its workers’ well being. This will raise workers’ morale and confidence in the company, thereby strengthening their loyalty to the company.

pearnel charles Minister of labour & social securityMarch 16,2010

ExCERPTS FROM SPEECH BY THE MINISTER OF LABOUR & SOCIAL SECURITY AT THE LAUNCH OF THE CONSTRUCTION SAFETY MANUAL


....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... The jourNal of The INcorporaTed MasTerbuIlders assocIaTIoN of jaMaIca 2011 nEWs and rEViEWs

Hon. Pearnel CharlesMinister of labour & social security

THE JOINT INDUSTRIAL COUNCIL FOR THE BUILDING

& CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

trades union congress

NationalWorkers Union

BUSTAMANTE INDUSTRIAL TRADE UNION

INCORPORATED MASTERBUILDERSASSOCIATION OF JAMAICA

SAFETY MANUALFOR THE BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

Incorporated Masterbuilders Association of Jamaica © 2009

The Safety Manual is available at the IMAJ Office at a cost of $150 each. The purchase of 10 copies or more will cost $100 each.

page:16.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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The jourNal of The INcorporaTed MasTerbuIlders assocIaTIoN of jaMaIca 2011fEaturE

Bill Clinton reinvigorated the public dis-course on the use of renewable energy in Jamaica. Solar energy, of which Jamaica is in abundant supply, is particularly important if we are to diversify away from imported sources of energy and become energy self-sufficient. While much has been said about solar elec-tricity over the past few years, actual usage has been slow to spread due to the large initial investment required and the scarce availability of financial incentives. It currently costs somewhere between J$2 million to J$3 million to fully equip a three-bedroom house with solar-generated pow-er. This puts solar systems out of the reach of the majority of Jamaican homeowners. Although the upfront expenditure is burden-some, solar panels have a life span of 25 years or more and a minimum battery life of 7 years. They are built to withstand 125 miles per hour winds and will start losing power after about three days of overcast conditions. The payback period for solar investments is typically 6-8 years and can be sooner de-pending on rising fuel costs, taxes on elec-tricity (currently 10% GCT in Jamaica) and foreign exchange movements.Despite these benefits, there are few in-centives to invest in solar technology in Jamaica.

Current Incentives

Currently, solar systems (including panels, batteries and inverters) are exempt from GCT and import duties. The National Hous-ing Trust (NHT) also offers low-interest “so-lar panel loans” of up to J$1.5 million for individual applicants and J$3 million for co-applicants. The interest rate ranges from 1% to 7% (depending on your weekly in-come) with a repayment period of 15 years. The NHT also offers a solar water heater loan of up to J$250,000 at 3% for 5 years. These loan options should be more aggres-sively marketed so that more Jamaicans are aware of their existence.On the commercial side, the Export-Import Bank has implemented a special credit line for manufacturers and agro-processors to establish alternative energy systems at rel-atively low interest rates.While these incentives are commendable, they are not enough to fuel a solar energy revolution in Jamaica. In fact, Barbados

is the leader in the Caribbean in terms of structuring incentives to drive renewable energy adoption. Homeowners receive sig-nificant income tax deductions for investing in systems and equipment that make their homes more energy-efficient and/or gener-ate electricity from renewable sources.

Proposed Incentives

I recommend that the following provisions be added to Jamaica’s income tax code to encourage solar energy adoption amongst both commercial and residential property owners:

• An individual owner of residential property who spends, inter alia, on en-ergy saving or water-saving devices is entitled to a maximum deduction from yearly taxable income of up to J$1,000,000.

• Up to J$250,000 can be deducted for expenditure related to a home energy audit and the purchase of any conser-vation materials or systems recom-mended in that audit. A home energy audit is defined as an evaluation by an authorized energy auditor of the energy consumption in a household to determine ways in which energy can be conserved.

• Up to J$750,000 can be deducted for expenditure on the purchase or instal-lation of “environmentally preferred products”. Environmentally pre-ferred products means products that cause significantly less harm to human health or to the environment than al-ternative products that serve the same purpose; or products, the consumption of which contributes significantly to the preservation of the environment.

A tax policy for commercial enterprises should also be implemented based on the following guidelines:• Up to 30% of the capital cost of invest-

ing in renewable energy technologies can be deducted from profit before tax, with a maximum claim of J$20 million.

• Accelerated depreciation on qualifying environmentally preferred assets – for example, depreciation of up to 50% of the asset in one year.

These tax incentives will drive adoption of solar technology at both the residential and commercial levels, helping to move Jamaica towards becoming self-sufficient in energy.

Net metering has a role

Finally, we need to reach a consensus with the domestic power company on the issue of net metering. Net metering allows an electricity customer’s meter to run back-wards if the electricity he or she generates is greater than that consumed, effectively

MORE INCENTIVES NEEDED TO FUEL SOLAR REVOLUTION

don Wehby, group ceo, graceKennedy ltd.

Jamaica’s energy costs are among the most expensive in the world – with adverse ef-fects on our standard of liv-ing and productive capacity. Let us use the reinvigorated public discussion to effect real change in how we incen-tivize renewable energy use.

Vol:48 No. 1 The jourNal of The INcorporaTed MasTerbuIlders assocIaTIoN of jaMaIca 2011

CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

The statistics are astounding, the gigantic scale of some of the world’s largest wind turbines hard to comprehend - even when you’re close enough to touch.

each blade of the latest turbines to be installed in british waters stretches for a staggering 60 metres - that’s slightly longer than the entire wingspan of a boeing 747 jumbo jet.

The massive rotor is about the same size as the london eye and, if laid on the ground, would cover most of two football pitches. The towers that hold the blades aloft are about 100 metres high, which makes them taller than big ben.

Thirty of them, constructed for the swedish power company Vattenfall, are being installed in the Irish sea off the coast of cumbria.

This is the newest of a dozen offshore wind farms around the uK, a key part of the government’s plans to use green energy to try to meet tough tar-gets for cutting carbon emissions.

Blade powerBuilt by the German firm REpower, the massive components were prepared for assembly on the

quayside at the harland & Wolff shipyard in belfast.

starting at the razor-sharp tip of one of the blades, where it is thinnest, the impression is of a slender wing - seemingly too delicate to endure the brutal storms of the ocean. but the closer you get to the hub, the sturdier the blade becomes, even resem-bling the hull of some sizeable vessel.

each designed to generate 5 MW of electricity, these leviathans have nearly twice the output of earlier models - part of a trend in this fledgling in-dustry of gradually increasing size.

The new wind farm, known as ormonde, stands off the coast near barrow-in-furness.

The logic of planting turbines out at sea is that the winds are usually stronger than on land - and there are fewer people likely to object. but the challenge of fixing foundations to the seabed and then con-structing and maintaining these structures means the bill is huge - this one wind farm is costing £500m.

and its total power output - when the wind blows - is due to be 150 MW. by comparison, a conven-tionally-powered gas or coal station might produce

1,000MW.

Future plansat the moment, price is the great weakness of offshore wind. right now, it’s the most expensive means of generating electricity, costlier even than nu-clear.

The power companies earn an attractive subsidy for power produced this way but the costs will find their way on to household bills and critics warn that this could make offshore wind highly unpopu-lar. The government hopes that prices will fall as technology advances and it wants thousands of tur-bines to be installed in the waters around britain in the next decade. current plans call for 18,000 MW of offshore wind capacity by the year 2020 - that would amount to roughly a quarter of the country’s entire electricity output.

Business figures say it is just about feasible to meet that target, but only with a surge in production, and with the political will to support it.

WIND GIANTS RISING Off BRITISH SHORES

The jourNal of The INcorporaTed MasTerbuIlders assocIaTIoN of jaMaIca 2011 ‘intErnational nEWs’


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CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

My impression is that, as with any new industry, experience reveals how some components and building techniques work better than others, and how people are keen to adapt.

Skill requirementsIn belfast, the harland & Wolff shipyard made the switch from construct-ing vessels to handling wind turbines. hundreds of people are acquir-ing the climbing skills needed to work on turbines - our team had to go through a training course on working at heights, designed by the wind industry, before embarking on this assignment.

The big unknown is whether plans for really massive offshore wind farms, the so-called round Three projects, will go ahead. These are slated to

be on a world-beating scale, forests of giant turbines standing in deeper waters, but at the eye-watering cost of well over £100bn.

Ministers argue that this will create thousands of new green jobs, cut emissions, reduce our dependence on foreign fuel and take advantage of being an island nation blessed with plenty of windy ocean.

love them or hate them - turbines are sprouting up in a seascape some-where near you. The question, as energy bills rise, is whether they are the right solution for britain’s consumers.

Source: BBC International World News Website, August 15,2011

IMaj Technical coordinator, pervis rogers con-tinues to visit high schools to give careers’ day talks. here he is conducting a mock interview with a senior student at the st. Thomas Technical high school. below, other students observe the inter-view.


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The jourNal of The INcorporaTed MasTerbuIlders assocIaTIoN of jaMaIca 2011fEaturE / nEWs

WIND GIANTS RISING OFF BRITISH SHORES CONT’D

banking the electricity until it is needed by the customer. This provides the customer with full retail value for all the electricity produced and is used in over 30 states in the U.S. and widely throughout Europe.Under Jamaica’s proposed net billing policy, an additional meter will have to be installed at the customer’s expense, and a much lower “avoided cost” value is placed on surplus electricity despite it being generated in a more environmentally sustainable way. This is a financial disincentive. Net metering will make the pay-back period on deploying solar technology shorter and is a mat-

ter of priority if we are truly serious about energy self-sufficiency.At approximately JMD 25 per kWh of electricity, Jamaica’s en-ergy costs are among the most expensive in the world – with adverse effects on our standard of living and productive capac-ity. Let us use the reinvigorated public discussion to effect real change in how we incentivize renewable energy use.

Don Webhy, Group Chief Executive Officer Grace Kennedy Ltd.

MORE INCENTIVES NEEDED TO FUEL SOLAR REVOLUTION CONT’D

CAREER DAY INTERvIEW

INTERNATIONAL NEWSCONTINUED fROM PAGE 17

CONTINUED fROM PAGE 16

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‘A modern, efficient, diversified and environmentally sus-tainable energy sector providing affordable and accessible energy supplies with long-term energy security and sup-ported by informed public behaviour on energy issues and an appropriate policy, regulatory and institutional frame-work’

The long-term strategic vision is built on ten (10) funda-mental elements as follows:

1. An energy sector that provides affordable energy supplies to all consumers throughout Jamaica with the capacity to meet long-term growth in demand; and one that contrib-utes to the international competitiveness of the productive sectors of the economy.

2. An energy sector that is supported by greater awareness by the Jamaican public of the importance of energy and its use in their daily lives and the contribution that each can make to the responsible and efficient use of this vital commodity

3. An energy sector that is focused on the modernization and expansion of the energy infrastructure (e.g. generation, transmission and distribution systems) to ensure safety, affordability, reliability and competitive advantage

4. An energy sector that is driven by private sector invest-ment within a policy and regulatory framework that fosters investments, competition, efficiency, a level playing field and transparency;

5. An energy sector that provides long-term energy security to producers and consumers in Jamaica, including security of supply and, to the fullest extent possible, long-term price stability;

6. An energy sector supported by databases that are accu-rate and precise to enable analysis, forecasting and overall management of the sector, especially information related to the transportation sector;

7. An energy sector that is environmentally sustainable with significantly increased use of economically viable renew-able energy sources

8. An energy sector that reflects a sustained improvement in the ways in which energy is used, through greater energy efficiency, reduced energy intensity and better energy con-servation and management;

9. An energy sector that possesses the flexibility and crea-tivity to adopt and adapt to new and appropriate energy technologies (such as fuel cells, small nuclear plants) that may emerge over the long-term

10. An energy sector with an appropriate institutional frame-work to support and facilitate the effective implementation of the policy supported by all relevant stakeholders, in-cluding the public and private sectors, educational institu-tions as well as non-governmental and community based organizations. The institutional framework will include among others: mechanisms for improved coordination and organization between and within energy agencies; capac-ity building to face the challenges regarding fossil fuel sup-plies and costs.

Source: Green Paper presented by Ministry of Energy & Mining in May 2011

VISION OF JAMAICA’S ENERGY SECTOR 2009 – 2030

Union Estate, Twickenham Park, St. Catherine, 2010

A plumber attended to a leaking faucet at the neuro-surgeon’s house. After a two-minute job the plumber demanded US$150.

The neurosurgeon exclaimed, ‘I don’t charge this amount even though I am a surgeon.”

The plumber replied, “I didn’t either, when I was a surgeon. That’s why I became a plumber.”

CONSTRUCTION JOKES!!!!


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ConstructionRenovationInterior Decorating

ConstructionRenovationInterior Decorating

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876-969-8237876-477-5916

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Constructing and maintaining an attractive floor has always been a major factor for both residen-tial and commercial properties. Until recently, it has always been a task to achieve the best op-tion through the use of Tiles, Carpets, Vinyl and Hardwood. However, resurfacing solid concrete areas (floors and walls) with colour, texture and design through the use of special concrete coat-ings and stains, dramatically enhances the ap-pearance and value of a home or business.

Depending on the manufacturer, decorative con-crete coatings provide a wealth of advantages which include: High Durability (excellent for high traffic areas), Easy Application, Inexpensive Maintenance, Seamless coatings without grout lines, Stains and Skin coats are thin (yet strong), Endless Versatility with styles and colours, Natu-ral Textures and Patterns, Interior and Exterior surfaces, easily repaired if damaged, Water-proofing Technology (eg. leaking slab roofs). The Stardek Waterproofing Technique is certainly one of the most lasting solutions for leaking slabs, pools, water tanks and boats, in a range of col-ours while boasting a 10-year warranty.

With the use of exceptional products, concrete coatings further add functionality and beauty to an environment. These products may be applied to various types of concrete surfaces such as driveways, walkways, patios, pool decks, walls, counter-tops, interior floors and loading docks.

Décor Spaces continues to make remarkable im-pressions in Jamaica, through the use of Stardek Decorative Concrete Coatings based in Tampa, Florida, a world leading manufacturer in the in-dustry. This decorative product is finding favours among users locally where its brilliant finishes may be seen at Usain Bolt’s Tracks and Records Restaurant as well as at several hotels and other commercial and residential locations throughout the island. Stardek’s coatings have been used at thousands of residential and commercial proper-ties internationally such as Walt Disney World and Sea World.

Property owners and Contractors should grasp the option of using this new and innovative floor-ing technique, as it is arguably the best alterna-tive when resurfacing concrete areas.

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DECORATIVE CONCRETE TECHNOLOGYTHE INNOVATIVE FLOORING ALTERNATIVE !

It is the common consensus that Jamaica should utilize more solar energy than we presently do. However, photovoltaic (PV) panels and solar water heaters are not the only solar technology that is available. An-other technology is daylighting: the use of natural lighting as a substitute for electric lighting, when environmental conditions permit; which is most of the time in a cli-mate like ours. You may not have heard of it, but you do realize that natural light was used to illuminate buildings before the advent of electricity. In fact, Jamaica’s original Energy Efficiency Building Code [EEBC-94], drafted as far back as 1994, in-cludes provisions for the use of daylighting to conserve energy and even has guide-lines for its installation.So what are the benefits of using daylight-ing? Studies undertaken for the drafting of EEBC-94 revealed that 20% savings of an office building’s total energy use is possible; the result of a 60% saving in en-ergy use for electric lighting. Peak cooling load is also reduced by 15%; which means smaller air condition units can be used, with corresponding reduction of installation costs. The value of buildings using day-lighting is generally higher; and the produc-tivity of occupants increases.The main disadvantage of daylighting in climates such as ours is the increased risk of thermal discomfort, which results in increased use of air-conditioning, and the consequent reduction of overall en-ergy savings that may have otherwise ac-crued. Daylighting typically avoids use of direct sunlight because of its intensity and variable illumination levels throughout the day. Instead, the diffused light from the sky is used, which is by nature less in-tense with relatively uniform illumination levels throughout the day. But even with this, making windows or skylights too large will significantly increase the solar heat-gain of buildings resulting in greater use of air-conditioning; thus negating the effect of daylighting to conserve energy. Larger openings in buildings do increase illumina-tion within a building, but solar heat-gain increases with increasing size of apertures.

Daylighting requires thermal control

Daylighting reduces peak cooling loads because this peak occurs when natural

lighting is most available, in the early af-ternoon; and, natural light exceeds the efficacy of electric lights. So, the effective use of daylighting requires greater reduc-tion of energy for electric lighting than the increase for air-conditioning. The point at which no further savings is possible from reduced use of electric light is called “day-light saturation”; as the name suggests, the room enclosure is saturated with day-light and electric lighting remains constant. Daylight saturation occurs when windows are approximately 10 – 25% of the exter-nal wall area. It occurs with skylights ap-proximately 2 – 3% of the roof area. Indis-criminate use of apertures exceeding these sizes will result in the poor performance of daylighting.

Another strategy to maintain solar control is to uniformly distribute apertures about the building so that lower levels of illumina-tion (from smaller apertures) can be evenly distributed within a room. Illumination near windows is typically twice that at the back of a room; and, illumination under skylights is typically 50% brighter than locations re-moved from the skylight. So, skylights are the preferred option, but their use is not always practical. Where used, windows should be located high above the floor lev-el. Illumination is more evenly distributed with higher placements of windows. It was previously mentioned that daylight-ing typically avoids use of direct sunlight. This also reduces the solar heat-gain into

buildings. Shading devices may be de-ployed to block transmission of direct sun-light while allowing a view of the sky which facilitates the use of diffuse light from the sky. For ground floors, daylight can also be filtered through the use of vegetation. Oth-erwise, daylight can be bounced off sur-rounding surfaces to further diffuse it. But if direct sunlight cannot be avoided, it should be used sparingly in non-critical task areas: which also reduces glare.

Illumination levels for daylighting should suit the task areas

Electric lighting is generally installed to suit the requirements of a task area: corridors require significantly lower illumination than general offices. So, daylight illumination should also suit the task requirements. Partly cloudy skies are typical of humid tropical climates as ours. The intensity of outdoor lighting can be ten times brighter than required indoors. In fact, daylight il-lumination is brighter for locations with latitudes closer to the equator. Indoor il-lumination can be measured using colour and cosine-corrected light meters in large-scale models of the proposed building. It can be calculated manually, or with use of computer simulation programs. Spaces up to 4.5 m in from windows can be pre-dominantly daylit. Spaces beyond this, up to 9 m in from windows can have daylight providing ambient lighting, unless skylights are utilized.

Daylight needs to be integrated with electric lighting

Having accomplished the above criteria ensures the availability of usable daylight,

DAYLIGHTING: ANOTHER SOLAR TECHNOLOGYBY: PAUL HAY


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It was previously mentioned that daylighting typically avoids use of direct sun-light. This also reduces the solar heat-gain into build-ings. Shading devices may be deployed to block transmis-sion of direct sunlight while allowing a view of the sky which facilitates the use of diffuse light from the sky.


but integration is needed with electric light-ing to actually effect savings in energy and seamless operation of both. This is accom-plished on two levels: quantitatively, with use of lighting controls to coordinate the amount of electric fixtures that will be illu-minated, and qualitatively, to ensure that lighting quality from each is compatible that it will not be immediately perceived which is in use.In the first instance, this may simply entail use of switches to control lighting fixtures near windows independent from fixtures far removed from windows or skylights. But, research has shown that allowing occupants sole control of light switches in response to changing daylight levels is unreliable. Current technology therefore favours use of automated switching over manual switching. Here, photocells moni-tor illumination levels and control when electric fixtures are illuminated, just as photocells control our street lights. How-ever, daylighting can either dim or turn-off

electric lights in response to rising natural illumination: the former being preferred, as the transition from electric light to daylight is smoother and less perceptible.To ensure compatible lighting quality, elec-tric lights need to emulate the colour, direc-tion, and quality of daylight. Fluorescent lighting is generally preferred. Fluorescent fixtures are typically installed parallel with windows to ensure proper direction; and in many cases, these fixtures are actually ori-ented to bounce light off the ceiling so that it reproduces the diffuse character of the daylight used – rather than the harsh direct lighting we are more familiar with.Solar panels – whether PV or water heat-ing – are somewhat limited by their current inefficiency and require large unshaded ar-eas for their installation. Whenever build-ings exceed three stories there is simply not enough roof space to accommodate the panels needed to provide all a build-ing’s needs. Conversely, skylights occupy a relatively small portion of a roof, and is

limited only by the availability of that roof. Otherwise, windows can be used, which are readily available in buildings. How-ever, the technologies are not mutually ex-clusive: smaller PV panels can be used to light portions of a building that cannot be lit by daylight. So, it is possible to collectively utilize solar energy for the greater part of a building’s energy needs; and, potential savings are greater with use of more than one solar technology. Our government has proposed using PV panels for street lights, which will be a worthwhile investment, but maybe incentives for the private sector to utilize more solar energy may prove more beneficial. Then, we could all have a bright future, even when the price of oil is volatile.

Paul Hay, Managing Director, PHC Projects


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DAYLIGHTING: ANOTHER SOLAR TECHNOLOGY CONT’DContinued from page 24

The Association hosted its first Annual Domino Tournament on Saturday, July 30, 2011 at the Police Officers’ Club in Kingston. Although the day got off to a late start, due to the heavy rains, the day was filled with lots of excitement and laughter. The event started off with soothing Oldies & Goodies music selected by Winston Mendez, and his assistant Akeen. The MC was Lavada Carruthers. The Domino Tournament was ably hosted by Ms. Tashelle Honeywell from the National Association of Domino body. Twenty-one (21) teams participated in the tournament, some representing their company. With vim and vigor, the teams started out in earnest where ego and adrenaline reigned, with each team trying to stay on top.Other highlights of the day were field events for persons who did not play domino. These events included: needle & thread race, potato sack race, egg & spoon races and three legged races. IMAJ staff members, their children and children of the domino players, participated in these events. Some of the adults tried to find their groove by participating in the potato sack race; this proved difficult for some. The agility and strength of the children were not matched by the adults, as at the start of the race some, like humpty-dumpty came tumbling down. Similar to the domino players, the children took the game seriously, determined to get prizes which consisted of exercise books and pencils. The sumptuous meals were prepared by Act II Restaurant. This consisted of two courses, Steamed Fish, Baked Chick-en, which were served with: Potato Salad, Tossed Vegeta-bles, Rice & Peas and Plain Rice. The management of the bar was done by the President and 2nd Vice-President. De-spite the poor support from the Masterbuilders’ membership overall, the tournament was a success. The Berger Paints team was crowned champion for 2011. Their prize included the championship trophy and a cash prize of $10,000.00. Berger also captured the second place winning a trophy and a cash prize of $5,000.00. Third place was won by the Brainford Team, and their prize was liquors. The main organizers of the tournament were 2nd Vice Pres-ident, Calman Barrett and the former Secretary/Manager, Lavada Carruthers.

By: Rosemarie McHugh Thomas

INAUGURAL DOMINO TOURNAMENT

The jourNal of The INcorporaTed MasTerbuIlders assocIaTIoN of jaMaIca 2011 nEW and rEViEWs


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The Winning Teams From Berger Paint

First place winners Second place winners

If you are looking for the answer to slow the physical aspects of growing older, the answer is right before your eyes – in the food you eat. With the present recession many will find reasons such as cost not to eat right. This concept is wrong; because many are now stressed especially those in the construction industry, hence it is all the more reason attention should be paid to your diet.

Baby Boomers can beautify themselves inside and out by select-ing foods rich in nutrients. According to Cheryl Forberg, expert in anti-aging nutrition and consulting dietitian to NBC’s “The Big-gest Loser” fitness reality show, one should envision the gro-cery store as a virtual medicine cabinet of vitamins and miner-als. Mixing and matching of favourite items is often necessary to create a tasty, versatile menu that provides benefits for the body inside and out. The following nutrients for common aging concerns were recommended:

Get Glowing SkinKeeping skin radiant is top of the mind of the majority of Baby Boomers. Collagen breakdown in the skin may contribute to the formation of wrinkles. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for the production of collagen. One serving of 100 percent grapefruit juice contains 72 milligrams of vitamin C, this juice is fat free with less than 100 calories in each eight-ounce serving.

BOOST YOUR ENERGY More and more persons are finding out that having less energy is the most unpleasant aspect of aging. To stay energized, avoid processed foods and sugary soft drinks. Add foods rich in iron such as: moderate amount of meat, spinach, proteins. Drink plenty of water and limit alcohol intake.

STRENGTHEN YOUR DISEASE DEFENCES – look for foods rich in lycopene, vitamin C and potassium. Stud-ies suggest lycopene may help in the fight against certain cancers and heart disease. Vitamin C neutralizes free radi-cals to help fight cell and tissue damage that could lead to diseases. Potassium plays an important role in cardio-vascular health, and a higher potassium intake has been associated with lower blood pressure and reduced risk of stroke. Load the grocery cart with foods like tomatoes and fresh grapefruit.

EATING RIGHT TO PREVENT CANCER Proper diet and nutrition are vital in helping to prevent many dis-eases, and cancer is no exception. Statistics show that cancer is an increasing global problem. It cuts across racial and socio-economic lines. Our immune systems usually kill cancer cells immediately, but some will escape the net. Cancer cells thrive where there is lots of blood. When can-cer cells surround regular tissue they can group together to form tumours. Not all tumors are cancerous. Benign tumors do not spread to other parts of the body and in most cases, are not life-threatening. Cancer does not necessar-ily spell death. Early detection and preventative measures are two ways to escape cancer. The most compelling evi-dence there is, is in the form of prevention through proper diet and nutrition.

Scientific evidence strongly suggests that nutrition plays an important role in cancer prevention. No specific diet has been proven to retard or reverse cancer, neither has any specific been known to cure cancer. However, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients may inhibit cancer develop-ment by neutralising carcinogens, thus ensuring that the immune system functions properly. This also prevents tis-sue and cell damage.

EAT YOUR WAY TO PROLONGED YOUTH


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The jourNal of The INcorporaTed MasTerbuIlders assocIaTIoN of jaMaIca 2011hEalth & fitnEss

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Earthquake Resistance Structural Design.Table c indicates that the higher the magnitude of the seismic shock waves the greater the likely earthquake damage to life and property - the natural and built environment.using historical, laboratory researched, and produced data of the magnitude of seismic shocks and their resultant evident impact on the earth’s surface and real and/or model structures; formulas and tables are created by/for structural engineers to use when doing designs for most types of structures (above or below ground) in earthquake prone zones.for a human made structure to withstand the impact of any earthquake effect, it must be so designed and constructed.a structure cannot be expected to withstand a situation, a force, an impact etc, for which it was not designed and constructed. both good and appropriate structural design and construction have to be coupled together, they cannot be separated or ignored and then expect that the structure will perform satisfactorily, and perhaps by luck or by magic they will resist the forces of nature (or others) to which they are subjected.If so required or expected, structures must be designed and constructed to remain stable and safe in predictable adverse situationhowever, observation has taught that; a structure will attempt to assume every mode to maintain its integrity (even when not so designed or intended),

The 2010 haiti earthquake was a catastrophic magnitude 7.0 Mw earthquake, with an epicenter near the town of léogâne, approximately 25 km (16 miles) west of port-au-prince, haiti’s capital. The earthquake occurred in the afternoon on Tuesday, 12 january 2010. earthquakes are unpredicted but common occurrence in some parts of the world.from 1Kings to revelation, the beginning to the end, the bible speaks of earthquakes and their various effects on people of this world; most times the effects are disturbing, and welcomed by none on earth.The earth is the solid or loose mass of the globe, and most humans live on the surface which is susceptible to many types of natural destabilizing actions, one such being an earthquake.a quake or tremor is usually a quick shake, mild or violent, that tends to produce adverse effect.by combining the words earth and quake we get earthquake, which is the shaking of the earth!an earthquake (seismic action) develops due

to intense heat generated action in the earth’s deep innermost layer, at the very solid iron & nickel inner core(1) and the liquid iron & nickel outer core(2), where there is tremendous heat and pressure. This inner action effects are then transmitted to the surface through other layers of the earth-globe known as mantle (3) onto to the Moho boundary then to the earth’s most outer layer (4), “the crust” which is familiar to us, the common people. Therefore, it is said that there are four layers of the earth-globe.earthquakes produce shock waves that travel through the earth. using devices, such as a seismograph, earthquake scientists (seismologists, geologists) are able to measure the magnitude of an earthquake. The greater the magnitude of the earthquake (measured by seismic waves radiated) is the higher the number ascribed as per the richter scale. on the richter scale, magnitude ten (10) and higher can be recorded and also, low minus seismic waves that are radiated. see tables below.

Table C: SOME MAJOR EARTHQUAKES OF THE WORLDNo. year date country Magnitude remarks 1 1692 june 7 jamaica/port royal N.s. Total major destruction of port royal city…. 2 1700 january 26 North america 8.7-9.2 caused a Tsunami to adversely affect japan! 3 1906 april 18 san francisco 7.2-8.25 eQ+ fire resulted in major usa disaster 4 1960 february 29 Morocco/agadir + 5.7-6.7 eQ+ fire resulted in major disaster.

5 1964 N.s. alaska/anchorage 9.2 stated as the world’s largest eQ ever 6 1985 N.s. Mexico 8.0 devastating

7 1989 N.s. california 6.9 devastating 8 1995 N.s. japan/Kobe 6.7 devastating 9 2002 N.s. Turkey 6.0 devastating10 2008 May 12 china/central 7.8 devastated Wenchaun county, sichaun province

11 2010 january 12 haiti/North america 7.0 devastating effects

Earthquakes are also classified in categories ranging from minor to great, depending on their magnitude.*Credits: UpSeis web site of Michigan Tech Geological and Mining & Engineering Sciences.,

and will fail only when there is no other option but to fail. scientists/engineers put it this way “a body will remain at rest, or uniform motion in a straight line unless acted upon by an external force.” a structure is not an ungrateful or irresponsible element or object. Notwithstanding, sensible responsible persons should demand that structures are designed and constructed to be safe.some things that are an advantage or disadvantage related to the effect of an earthquake on a building/structure:

· The site, soil Investigation· The type of surface and/or sub-surface

material (solid, loose, or liquid) the structures rest on.

· The building/structure design· The construction/supervision· The Testing & Quality control· The cost (The price paid sooner or later!)· The distance from the epicenter,

different building/structure designs withstand differently in an earthquake and the further you are from the earthquake, the less damage you will usually experience. Whether a building is built on solid rock or sand makes a big difference in how much damage

EARTHQUAKES, NATURAL PHENOMENA, ADVERSITIES & OPPORTUNITIES

A MANAGEMENT-ENGINEERING PERSPECTIVE[WHERE IS THE STEEL?]

Table A : Earthquake Magnitude Scale*Magnitude earthquake effects estimated Number each year

2.5 or less usually not felt, but can be recorded by seismograph. 900,0002.5 to 5.4 often felt, but only causes minor damage. 30,0005.5 to 6.0 slight damage to buildings and other structures. 5006.1 to 6.9 May cause a lot of damage in very populated areas. 1007.0 to 7.9 Major earthquake. serious damage. 208.0 or greater great earthquake. can totally destroy communities near the epicenter. one every 5 to 10 yearsTable B: Earthquake Magnitude Classes*class great Major strong Moderate light MinorMagnitude 8 or more 7 - 7.9 6 - 6.9 5 - 5.9 4 - 4.9 3 -3.9


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ANCAR PARTNERS & INVESTMENTS LIMITED

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it takes. solid rock usually shakes less than sand, so a building built on top of solid rock should not be as damaged as it might if it was sitting on a sandy ground.

buildings/structures are to be designed and constructed taking into account the soil/ground conditions-surface and sub-surface that is expected to maintain the building/structure in a safe state commencing at the foundation..a geo-Technical engineer (soils engineer) can do the necessary soils investigation and provide the structural design engineer with the data and information necessary so that he/she can design the building/structure (foundation and super-structure) to be appropriate and safe.

Where is the Steel?In concluding this article, I ask, where is the steel in many of those buildings/structures that have collapsed having been subjected to a catastrophic magnitude 7.0 Mw earthquake jolt?or should the question be: where were the steel (reinforcing bars) when they were needed to stay the structures?The combination of appropriate structurally designed and placed steel reinforcement and concrete is the composition that will cause a building/structure to be able to withstand an earthquake impact, and/or other impact or forces

of nature.

Where is the steel? It ought to be correctly selected (as per specification), fabricated (cut & bent), properly placed/spaced, tightly secured, having adequate space for concrete cover/bonding, sturdy form work and props, and then the good quality rightly proportioned (for specified strength) mixed concrete is placed, vibrated and cured to maturity. In so doing, the steel reinforcement and the

concrete will unite to form the wholesome expected composite element to give the building/structure the stable or desired integrity that the structural design engineer intended, having been properly constructed under competent engineering supervision.Where is the steel? Is it in the right mix, the concrete mix?

by: Kingsley Kennedy


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Continued from page 30

The Masterbuilders association of jamaica had their presentation awards to children of construction Workers on july 4, 2011, at s.a. (bill) groves conference room, 5 oxford park avenue, Kingston 5.The award ceremony had a late start due to the weather. This however, did not prevent the thirty-six (36) students from attending, along with their parents, teachers and friends to receive their awards. The Mc, Mrs. rosemarie Mchugh Thomas, engaged the audience with the history and plans of the association on their commitment to education and Training and their continued efforts to award scholarships to children of construction workers who have showed exceptional achievement in their academic studies. she also outlined how children are eligible to get these scholarships. she implored those who were awarded scholarships to continue working hard to make their parents and teachers proud of them. To the parents and teachers she gave special congratulations, adding that they are the true ‘winners’ as all their efforts have borne fruit.The Guest Speaker was Mrs. Grace McLean, Chef Education Officer, Ministry of education who commended the students, teachers and parents on their success. special invited guest was dr. carolyn hayle, executive director of the hearT Trust/NTa. she addressed the audience on the role of hearT Trust/NTa in their effort to develop on-the-job training, and their commitment in supplying competent trainees to the workforce. scholarship awards were issued as follows:• Clarendon College - 4 scholarships• Frome Technical High School - 5 scholarships• Hampton High School - 1 scholarship• Merl Grove High School - 2 scholarships• Newell High School - 2 scholarships• St. Catherine High School - 2 scholarships• Rusea’s High School - 1 scholarship• Westwood High School - 5 scholarships• Portmore HEART Academy - 13 scholarships (in three competencies: Industrial electrical Maintenance, air conditioning & refrigeration and general construction).entertainment was provided by students from the frome Technical and st. catherine high schools. The vote of thanks was given by Ms. akelia bacchas, student of frome Technical high school. Mr. courtney costly, chairman, education and Training committee at Incorporated Masterbuilders association (IMaj) did the closing remarks.

By: Rosemarie Mchugh Thomas

president of the Incorporated Masterbuilders’ association of jamaica (IMaj), hugh burton (3rd left), and courtney costley (right), chairman of IMaj’s education and Training committee share a moment with scholars from Westwood high school who were awarded with scholarships at an awards ceremony held at the IMaj headquarters in Kingston. (photo: lionel rookwood)

Managing Director David A.. Andrews

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SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS TO CHILDREN OF

CONSTRUCTION WORKERS



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Managing Director David A.. Andrews

* Project Management* General Roof Works* General Construction to Buildings* Repairs to Building* Drywall Partitions & Ceilings* Suspended Ceilings* Trowel-On Works* Textured Spraying* General Painting Works*Electrical Works* Plumbing Works* A/C Works* General Grille and Iron Works

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!

Just a decade or so ago you would not see an energy policy as part of the strategic planning for projects and business entities. Today, however, energy security concerns are real. This article weighs in on the relevance and application of renewable energy in contemporary commercial undertakings.

ENERGY: Like most natural phenomena, we know not what energy is, but we recognize it in its proper aspects. We know that nothing moves without some measure of energy being involved, we are accustomed to the age old definition of energy as simply the ability to do work, to move things.RENEWABLE: Renewable suggests a replenishing or refreshing of some diminishable substance. Renewable energy is the term that describes energy that is derived from natural resources, being Wind, Sun, Sea or Land. For the purpose of his article the focus will be more on the most abundant and widely applied renewable energy -SOLAR.

SOLAR ENERGY is energy from the Sun. Any system that can harness the abundant and freely available energy of the Sun for useful work should command our attention and interest. After all, at the bottom line we are looking at zero charges for use. The outputs are the same; the energy is readily available for lighting our homes, factories and offices; for heating our potable and process water; and for powering our electricity driven devices of all types, many of which we literally or figuratively cannot live without.

ENABLERS: We cannot much longer

ignore the appeal of renewable as it goes to our bottom-line operating costs. Here are some facts:

Global human population is now over 6Billion and rising. We live in an increasingly technology driven world, forces of supply and demand encourage us to leverage technology of all kinds to our continued advantage. Energy is what moves technology. We exist as a global village. Our economic decisions are reflected in real time in an efficient market centric globe. We are constantly ranked and rated by decision makers all over the world based on these decisions. This is the nature of our contemporary existence. The question becomes how to leverage natural abilities, and competitive strengths, against global competitive pressures, towards effective and successful development and yes, evolution.

Still there is the benefit of environmental preservation, which is a topic all by itself. The trends in the choice, and demand for energy over the better part of the last century is shown in the diagrams below. It tells a tale of moving from solid coal, to liquid oil, to gas and then on to the elements of nature, the renewables. The options show growth and expansion in their respective demand as well as their associated technologies. We have the power clearly to predict the propagation of Hydro, renewables, and nuclear. Do we have the will to capitalize when the opportunities evolve and manifest?Surely energy consumption is continuing and will continue to grow. Nations will seek for abundance in their choice of energy sources, during

the transitions to new sources; supply and demand will create competition for energy reserves. Purchasing power will determine who gets energized, but energy availability will drive technological development, which is the leverage for economic survival….The decision, in the short term, to migrate to renewable is a decision in the long term to survive or to perish!

I will focus on solar electricity, not only for the reasons stated earlier but also, since we are becoming increasingly dependent on electrical energy for our daily functions.

SOLAR ELECTRIC SYSTEMS: Solar electric technology is a mature technology that has been developed to fit modern applications. In essence the steps are simple and straightforward.1.Collect the abundant energy from the sun.2.Channel it and store it safely3.Harness the storage of energy for consumption on demand4.Repeat.Step four (4) is essential, and is the root of the renewability concept.

COLLECTION: The sun emits radiant energy in the form of visible light and heat according to the electromagnetic spectrum. Solar Photovoltaic cells, built from semiconducting material (just like computer chips) are strung together to build up enough voltage to power a battery, typically 12 Volts but also 24, 48 and 60 Volts. Each individual PV cell produces only 0.6 Volts; several have to be strung together at a time. The entire assembly is called a solar (PV) panel and is the engine behind electric power generation.

CHANNELING AND STORAGE: This electrical voltage can be combined to drive a current into specially designed batteries for storage. The flow of current is not haphazard, as may be generated by the solar panel due to fluctuations in radiation intensity or cloud cover, but is marshalled by a battery charge controller. Close cousin of the motor vehicle charge regulator.

Several varieties of batteries exist to choose from, each with their advantages, disadvantages, and safe application. Most contain sulphuric acid and demand care in their handling and storage. The batteries are designed to have readily available power on those

RENEWABLE ENERGYWHAT IS THIS RENEWABLE ENERGY AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?


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“dark days.”HARNESSING FOR CONSUMPTION:The magic of a solar electric generator is obtaining appliance operating voltage from a battery. An Inverter makes this possible. Chopper circuits and cycloconverters, inside the Inverter, along with signal processing circuitry, combine to produce the levels, and cyclic variation (be it 50 cycle or 60 cycle) of the output appliance voltage, given battery level voltage to start with. This is the WOW of the process.

The output supplied gives options. You can have a smooth voltage from a more expensive inverter, or a less refined, more jagged output from a less expensive inverter, the key is to understand your equipment and its requirements.

REPEAT: An initial investment in solar technology will continue to give up to eighty percent (80%) performance efficiencies for over two decades with very little maintenance. The material and modes of construction of these devices have been proven to last, giving power over its lifespan “as long as the sun shineth”.

In installing these systems the perceptive and aware consumer is installing energy security, and is sheltered from the shocks of supply and demand for scarce energy resources today and for the future.

BASIC SYSTEM DESIGN: Arriving at

the completed system to fit a particular electrical energy requirement is a stepwise process. This is summarized (in a very general way) here as follows:1. First a determination must be made of the pattern of energy consumption in terms of how appliances and equipment are used as a group. What is the established pattern, if any, governing the grouping of electrical equipment for use? This capacity MUST be built into the service delivery of the system. Also important is the duration of use for each particular piece of equipment. The Wattage demand multiplied with the duration of usage gives the energy consumed in Watt-hours. (Energy = Power x Time).2. Next determination is with regards to the built-in reserve capacity of the system. How many rainy days are you saving towards? This is a key consideration as it relates to sizing your battery storage. The batteries are your piggy bank…Literally!3. Once this is determined, thought is next given to the hours of sunlight available, and the total energy requirement of your connected electrical equipment. Efficiencies must be borne in mind particularly at this stage. A matching of total energy required back to your total solar energy input is now in order; this of course leveraged through your efficiency considerations. You get to a stage where the total power input required is determined. With a knowledge of the available wattages of each solar panel on the market, a choice can be made as to

the number and rating of individual panels required.4. The charge controllers must replace the battery energy consumed on rainy days, this over a time agreed early in the design. It is the rate of such charge (energy required over time available for a given voltage) that determines the current throughput of the controller.5. Mounting systems for the solar panels are determined based on type of roofing, land space available, and other considerations.

This is a very basic overview of the process and it is always encouraged that expert advice be sought before, during and after installation of these systems.

coNclusIoN:There is a buzz of activity around renewable energy and environmental sustainability globally. The conceptualization of a “carbon footprint” for energy consumers, with attending tradable value in the minimizing of same; increased risk awareness and mitigation sensitivity, with volumes of supporting guidance and publication; the issue of sovereignty, and the threats thereto in this global village; the undeniable link between energy availability and economic well being – these and other facts, push and incentivize us towards the goal of energy awareness first, and on to energy security. Here in jamaica, it is clearly time for re-eNergIsINg The coNsTrucTIoN INdusTry WITh reNeWable eNergy.

by: shawn r briscoe p.eng.

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The jourNal of The INcorporaTed MasTerbuIlders assocIaTIoN of jaMaIca 2011adVErtisErs

page:42.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................

LOVEL SMITH TEL. No. 962-1717/962-6639CONSTRUCTION LTD. FAX No.962-5675

[email protected]

SHOP #11

THE TIME TO BUILD IS NOW !

LOVEL SMITH CONSTRUCTION LTD.

GENERAL BUILDING & CIVIL WORKS CONTRACTOR

SERVICES PROVIDED ISLANDWIDE

MID WEST SHOPPING CENTRE 38 CALEDONIA ROAD P.O. BOX 1075, MANDEVILLE

OR EMAIL US AT

AT

CALL US

With Compliments

29 Lyndhurst Rd, Kingston 5, Jamaica W.I 876 908 4367 tel . 876 908 4339 fax

[email protected]

Date post:	30-Mar-2016
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