Act with urgency on energy transition, Region urged at close of CSEF V

The Fifth Caribbean Sustainable Energy Forum (CSEF) concluded in Nassau, The Bahamas on Thursday following two days of robust discussions centred on the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) transition to more efficient and clean energy. The Forum elicited calls for sustainable energy champions at the national and regional levels, predictable laws and regulations, enhanced planning and strategy for development, and enhanced engagement with the private sector. Speaking at the closing ceremony at the British Colonial Hilton Nassau, Ms. Kim Osborne of the Organisation of American States (OAS) pointed out that stakeholders were clear on the actions that had to be taken, and the urgency that was necessary. Ms Osborne was echoing the sentiments of The Bahamas Prime Minster, the Rt. Hon. Perry Christie who delivered the feature address at the CSEF V opening ceremony on Monday evening. Over the two days, several panels featuring government Ministers and some of the biggest names in the regional energy field discussed a range of issues pertinent to the Community’s transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. Discussions centred on the Caribbean Sustainable Energy Roadmap and Strategy (C-SERMS) and the CARICOM Energy Policy; regulatory matters; building a culture of effective statistics and information management; funding the transition; and identifying knowledge, skill and quality requirements. The Forum, which attracted more than 100 persons also looked back at progress in energy transition made over the past five years and looked forward to the next ten years. Discussions were also held following presentations on the experiences of Jamaica and The Bahamas as they transition to clean energy.