In a matter of weeks the Barbados Renewable Energy Association (BREA) is expected to present Government with “a comprehensive policy proposal” for expanding the renewable energy sector while reducing the island’s fuel import bill.
Clyde Griffith, executive director of the assocation, said it would be starting with a campaign at the end of this month to further sensitize the public on the benefits of the sector and the steps needed to achieve the national goal of reducing fossil fuel consumption by 20 per cent by 2029.
He said the proposal would be submitted also to relevant stakeholders in the energy sector, including gas station operators and the Barbados Light & Power Company Limited, as well as the Fair Trading Commission (FTC).
“We intend to start at the end of September with a road launch programme called Renewable Energy 101: From Novice To Expert,” Griffith said.
He made the comments recently at a Press conference following the FTC’s decision on the renewable energy rider project to cap the maximum energy from customers to the national grid at seven megawatts.
Griffith said the road show would be followed by a proposal to Government highlighting “the fact that in this sector we can create about 2 000 jobs in the next five years”.
Among other things, the policy document is expected to highlight ways of reducing electricity rates by at least 25 per cent for all customers within two years. It also proposes that a comprehensive transportation study on reducing traffic congestion and carbon emissions be implemented.
“We want to show the country that we can save $150 million in foreign exchange as it relates to fuel imports,” added Griffith. (MM)
