Last Updated on February 6, 2025, 6:46 AM AST by Anthony Morris
Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew emphasized the need for energy security, investment in renewable resources, and regional integration towards driving economic transformation, during the 3rd Council of OECS Energy Ministers Meeting in St Kitts and Nevis, on Tuesday, February 4th, 2025.
During the meeting, PM Drew advised the Caribbean region to take strong actions and quick decisions in transforming the nation to sustainable energy that will present many investment opportunities, job creation, and technological advancement.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew said that energy is an economic enabler and highlighted the importance of reducing dependence on imported energy sources, which will reduce costs, safeguard economies from external shocks and provide reliable and affordable electricity for the locals.
To achieve this transformation, he called for increased access to concessional financing, public – private partnerships, and innovative funding mechanisms such as green bonds and blended finance models.
Notably, he also encouraged regional integration and collaboration like interconnected grids and submarine energy cable for easy energy trade between the OECS countries and asked the member states to expand initiatives like the Eastern Caribbean Solar Challenge.
Premier Mark Brantley also attended the OECS Energy Ministers Meeting
Premier of Nevis, Mark Brantley also attended the meeting and said that St Kitts and Nevis are working together to develop the geothermal energy resource located in Nevis, so that all Kittitians and Nevisians can benefit from it.
He also stated that despite facing challenges like technical, financial, and regulatory hurdles in advancing geothermal energy, the government is pushing forward with the project with their determination and resilience.
The meeting was also attended by the incoming chair of the OECS Council of Ministers, Konris Maynard and OECS Director General Dr Didacus Jules.
Third Meeting of the OECS Council of Ministers: Energy
The third meeting was held at the St Kitts Marriott Resort from February 4th to February 5th, 2025, to promote the OECS Sustainable Energy Roadmap 2025-2035.
The meeting focused on improving economic growth through sustainable energy across OECS territories.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
