Rocky Mountain Institute – Who They Are and What They Do

Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) is a global, independent nonprofit working to transform energy systems through market-driven, clean-energy solutions. Active in over 50 countries, the organization collaborates with governments, utilities and communities to advance affordable, resilient, low-carbon energy transitions.

RMI brings deep technical expertise in power system planning, distributed renewable energy deployment, grid resilience, and policy design. Its work spans accelerating clean energy investment, strengthening electricity systems in climate-vulnerable regions, and supporting institutions to adopt practical, financially viable pathways toward decarbonization.

RMI’s Islands Energy Program has extensive experience supporting island nations to design and deploy renewable, hurricane-resilient energy systems. The program works alongside island governments and local stakeholders to reduce fuel import dependence, lower electricity costs, and strengthen energy security in regions exposed to increasingly severe storms and climate impacts.

Through this partnership, NEF is helping improve healthcare reliability, reduce dependence on diesel, lower operating costs, and strengthen long-term climate resilience for a frontline island community.

What NEF Does with RMI

In 2026, NEF is supporting RMI to deliver a solar-and-battery microgrid (18kW/43kWh) at the Union Island Hospital Clinic in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The project strengthens the facility’s ability to maintain reliable power during grid outages and extreme weather events.

Designed toCategory-5 hurricane standards, the system integrates solar PV generation with battery storage to provide resilient, continuous electricity for critical hospital operations. This includes refrigeration of medicines, operation of essential medical equipment, and emergency response services.

By reducing reliance on imported diesel and improving energy security, the project supports long-term cost stability and climate resilience for a frontline island community that was heavily impacted by Hurricane Beryl.