AS part of this year’s observance of the 20th Edition of Energy Awareness Month (EAM) government personnel put on an innovative display at the William Peter Boulevard, on Wednesday, to sensitize the public about the advantages in pursuing energy efficiency practices.
The event, organized by the Ministry of Infrastructure, Ports, Transport, Physical Development and Urban Renewal received support from major commercial entities and stakeholders in this much touted energy transition. The theme for EAM 2023 is: Get Involved, Renewable, Resilient, Affordable, Clean Energy for the Future.
Acting Permanent Secretary in the Department of Infrastructure, Ports and Transport Lenita Joseph said that it is imperative for persons to reflect on “the critical importance of sustainable energy for our lives, our environment and our shared future”.
She noted that “our economy and society are built on a foundation of reliable and affordable energy”. She said, the nation’s current energy system is unsustainable and the heavy reliance on imported fuels exposes the country to volatile oil prices and contributes to pollution and climate change.
“This is a threat to our economic security, our health, and our way of life,” declared Joseph.
She described sustainable energy, as “energy that meets our needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”.
Sustainable Energy incorporates renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind and hydro-power, as well as, energy efficiency and conservation measures.
“Renewable energy sources are abundant and reliable and they do not produce Green-house Gas Emissions,” Joseph explained. “Energy efficiency and conservation measures can help us to reduce our energy consumption and save money.”
In his feature address, Minister with responsibility for Urban Renewal, Stephenson King stated that this “significant milestone” exemplifies a collective dedication and tireless efforts to advance sustainable energy practises.
Expounding on the National Energy Policy that was recently ratified, he said: “This visionary framework charts the bold course for our energy sector, placing paramount importance on cost efficiency, local empowerment and security.”
King underlined 12 fundamental values at the core of this energy transition, which ranges from reliability and inclusivity to affordability and resilience “to serve as the bedrock for Saint Lucians to seize the burgeoning opportunities emerging from our evolving energy landscape.”
He said that due to the extenuating economic global factors that impedes the country’s productivity, there must be “an unconventional approach to energy security, one that requires innovation, capacity building, adaptation and adaptability and a steadfast commitment to sustainability.”
Added King: “The blueprint for Energy Independence as articulated in the updated policy demands a holistic cross-sectorial strategy.”
As a result, he said, it is vital to engender partnerships “between the government, civil society and the private sector to forge a sustainable path forward. It’s only through this cooperative endeavour that we can truly unlock the full potential of our energy resources ensuring a future that is not only environmentally sustainable, but economically prosperous and socially inclusive.”
The minister acknowledged the input of the private sector, for their exceptional contribution “in propelling innovation in Saint Lucia’s energy sector.”
He noted that the Private Sector Energy Fair “is a testament to your unwavering commitment to progress and sustainability. The technologies, products and services showcased …are more than just exhibits. These innovations stand as catalysts that are shaping our energy terrain, paving the way for a future that is cleaner, more efficient and more accessible.”
Minister for Commerce Emma Hippolyte noted energy costs are among the highest “operational expenses” in the region.
She is pleased with the recent pronouncement that the “state -imposed cap” on solar energy consumption has been raised from 25kilowatts for commercial customers and 5kilowatts for households.
Hippolyte reiterated that there have been unabated complaints about electricity costs from business places around the island during scheduled site visits undertaken by the department.
“While manufacturers recognize the benefits to be derived from making that transition to cleaner energy sources, such as solar power, they insist that the state-imposed cap rendered minimum cost savings,” she added. “For business that have taken the bold step to ‘solarizing’ their operations and continue to lobby in this regard, consultation with the National Utilities Regulatory Commission [NURC] are still ongoing to increase the cap, sooner rather than later.”
The minister asserted that the Ministry of Commerce continues to encourage energy conservation “and the transition to renewable energy through its Public Education Campaigns”
Hippolyte notes that the intention is to “reduce operational expenses by lowering electricity costs to businesses and consumers alike, while ensuring a safe and healthy environment for all.”
In addition, she said, the department will continue to monitor and be actively involved in the operations of the NURC and other stakeholders towards the goal “of advancing needed legislative changes to enable the Green Transition.”