Aiming to Become a Nation with Affordable Energy

According senior figures in the Cabinet, the vision for the energy sector is ‘to become an island nation where sustainable, reliable, renewable, clean and affordable energy services are provided to all citizens’.  Achievement of this vision requires a holistic approach in order to address the changes required in fuel supply types and energy carriers, consumption patterns, infrastructure and management to facilitate the transition to a more sustainable Energy Sector,” explained government officials. 

With support from the Organization of American States (OAS) and the European Union (EU) work is being undertaken on completing the formulation of a comprehensive National Energy Policy that will provide the adequate legal, institutional and economic framework to support the development of a sustainable Energy Sector, Dr. Douglas said in the National Assembly, on Tuesday 13^th, December, 2011, when he delivered the annual Budget Speech. 

He also outlined “the development of this policy was informed by consultations which were held earlier this year with public and private sector stakeholders in both St. Kitts and Nevis.  With its final approval and adoption by the National Assembly, the policy framework will provide the parameters for the continued development of the Energy Sector.” 

Douglas went on to say “During 2012 work will continue on the formulation of regulations to control the level of carbon emissions and to guide the development of renewable energy initiatives.  We will also deepen our collaboration with regional and international agencies such as the CDB, the Alliance of the Small Island States (AOSIS), the OAS and the Global Environmental Facility (GEF) in order to secure technical and financial support.  As evidence of our commitment to this transformation, my Government has taken the initiative to lead by example as we have successfully installed solar panels to provide electricity to Government Headquarters.”