Dr. Martin told reporters out that over the last year the Government has been vigorously looking at wind energy and by the end of October the first wind farm at Belle Vue in St. Kitts will be operated by North Star.

In a release issued by the Government, following the press conference, Martin is reported to have said that discussions are also continuing with the Nevis Island Administration, with regards to geothermal energy, to ensure that it comes on stream.

“Once we are able to have geothermal come on stream, that also will provide another source of energy leading to a reduction in the cost of supply,” said Dr. Martin.

Dr. Martin said that he is of the view that  capital investment in renewable energy projects will be significant and that the development of a National Energy Policy for the Federation was being discussed at a National Consultation at the OTI on Thursday.

“Consultants from the OAS have been working with us over the last couple of years and they would be helping us with the national policy. All stake holders, manufacturers, consumers and others are involved and will guide the government in terms of putting forward the energy policy that will be able to solve several issues including the cost of electricity and the cost of renewable energy,” said Dr. Martin.

Also speaking on the subject, Dr. Douglas told the media representatives that “The Minister of Energy Dr. Earl Asim Martin and I, as Minister of Finance, are working collaboratively in the Cabinet to ensure that there is an appropriate response by the government to the electricity rates in particular,” said Dr. Douglas.

He said as soon as the appropriate economic analysis is completed “we shall come out with something that might bring some relieve to consumers.”