Caribbean News
JAMAICA: Dr. Wheatley Welcomes Launch of LNG-Fuelled Vehicles by IGL
#Jamaica, April 7, 2018 – Kingston – Science, Energy and Technology Minister, Dr. the Hon. Andrew Wheatley, has commended IGL Limited for being the first company in Jamaica to introduce liquefied natural gas (LNG) to fuel its vehicles. The gas distributor on April 5 launched three LNG-powered tractor heads at Devon House in St. Andrew. The fuel is supplied by New Fortress Energy.
The move is expected to reduce harmful emissions and save on fuel costs for the company, which is a leading distributor of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and the primary manufacturer and distributor of industrial and medical gases.
“I want to congratulate IGL… . As Minister… I truly appreciate the move, or any initiative that seeks to reduce our carbon footprint,” Dr. Wheatley said. He noted that such a launch by IGL demonstrates the company’s commitment to energy efficiency and to the Government’s overall energy policy developed in 2009, which speaks to energy diversification.
That policy provides a framework for the sustainable management of energy resources and the development of viable renewable energy resources, with the latter expected to represent no less than 20 per cent of the energy mix by 2030.
The Minister pointed out that LNG is the better choice of fuel, as it is efficient and is extremely suitable for long-distant movements.
“The move to LNG is not purely by chance. We’re seeing that in a number of developed countries they are looking to transfer from the traditional fuel to LNG,” he said, while emphasising the Government’s commitment to energy security.
IGL General Manager, Wayne Kirkpatrick, said the use of LNG to fuel its tractor heads is part of the company’s Clean Air Initiative aimed at reducing its carbon footprint, while protecting people and the environment.
“Jamaica’s National 2030 Development Plan recommends that, as a country, we create prosperity through the sustainable use and management of our natural resources,” he noted.
Data provided by Mr. Kirkpatrick indicates that LNG vehicles reduce 20 to 45 per cent of smog-producing pollutants and about five to nine per cent less of greenhouse gas emissions.
“Thus, LNG gas-fired power is more competitive when long-term costs associated with climate change and the impact of air pollution, both on people and the environment, are included,” he said.
For his part, owner of New Fortess Energy, Wes Edens, said that IGL’s use of LNG mirrors his company’s own foray into the natural gas business in order to reduce energy costs while providing environmental benefits. Mr. Edens argued that the transportation industry consumes more fuel than the electricity sector and IGL’s move “is a real beacon of hope in terms of what can happen here in Jamaica”.
New Fortress is transforming Jamaica’s energy sector, converting Jamaica Public Service’s (JPS) Bogue plant in St. James from diesel fuel to LNG. The company is undertaking the development of the JPS’s 190-megawatt power plant at Old Harbour Bay, St. Catherine, and, in December, broke ground for a 94-megawatt natural gas-fired power plant at Jamalco in Clarendon.
Mr. Edens informed that his company’s LNG terminal is expected to be fully operational by year end. He indicated that other partnerships to provide LNG for the transportation sector are to come on stream shortly.
Release: JIS
KINGSTON, May 1 (JIS):
Ground has been broken at the tuition-free Christel House at Twickenham Park, St. Catherine, for the construction of a high school.
Minister of Education and Youth, Hon. Faval Williams, who delivered the keynote address at the site, today (May 1), said Christel House’s dedication to breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering vulnerable children is “nothing short of inspiring”.
“Your decision to invest in Jamaica speaks volumes about your belief in our nation’s potential, and your dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our youth is appreciated,” Minister Williams said.
She added that the partnership between the Government and the organisation, forged through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in 2019, is a “prime example” of what can be achieved when public and private entities come together with a shared vision and purpose.
Further, the Minister said a foundation is being laid for a brighter future, one where every child has the opportunity to thrive and fulfil their potential, regardless of their circumstances.
She said that Christel House Jamaica, which now operates a kindergarten school at the location, will in time be more than just a school.
“It will be a symbol of optimism, a sanctuary of learning, and a catalyst for positive change in our community,” the Minister said.
“By providing comprehensive support, including education, nutrition, healthcare, and mentorship, Christel House will empower students to break free from the chains of poverty and chart a course towards a better tomorrow,” she added.
Mrs. Willliams said the shared goal between the Administration and Christel House extends beyond the construction of a building, as it is about nurturing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers who will shape the destiny of the nation.
“Together, we are sowing the seeds of prosperity, equity, and social justice, ensuring that no child is left behind,” she said.
The school provides breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack, as well as transportation for children living far distances from the school. It also provides uniforms and textbooks, and counselling services for its students who have to contend with psychological and other emotional issues.
Founder of Christel House International, Christel Dehaan, emigrated from Germany to the United States (US) in 1962, and was an accomplished businesswoman.
In 1996, she sold her global enterprise, Resort Condominiums International (RCI), which had offices in 38 countries, and devoted her resources to philanthropic work from her headquarters in North Meridian Street, Indianapolis.
With support from dedicated donors, schools are run in India, Jamaica, Mexico, South Africa, and the US.
CONTACT: GARFIELD L. ANGUS
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