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The Turks and Caicos Islands Government, Rocky Mountain Institute and FortisTCI to Draft Resilient National Energy Transition Strategy

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#Providenciales, September 27, 2018 – Turks and Caicos – With a focus on building a sustainable, reliable, and least-cost energy future that takes into consideration the full scope of generating and delivering electricity in the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Government (TCIG) alongside Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) and FortisTCI Limited have partnered to develop the Turks and Caicos Islands Resilient National Energy Transition Strategy (R-NETS). RMI is facilitating this initiative and held a kick-off meeting with all participants on Thursday, September 13, 2018, to discuss and agree on the project timeline and objectives.

As technology continues to drive change in the electric utility industry at a rapid pace, the transition toward a smarter energy grid, with more renewable energy and energy efficient options, will require a systematic approach to new developments. The R-NETS is intended to ensure that all stakeholder needs – including customers, the government and the utility – are met as changes are implemented.  The R-NETS will also identify specific roles for TCIG, FortisTCI, developers, financial institutions, and local communities that will enable this transition toward a more sustainable energy future. Other objectives of the process include exploring viable options for producing and distributing electricity to customers across the Turks and Caicos Islands, identifying the appropriate mix of energy sources needed to meet short and long-term consumer energy needs, and ensuring that TCIG objectives are aligned with that of the electricity sector.

The R-NETS process has three phases and takes a highly collaborative approach. Phase one takes a fact-based approach and identifies the traditional and renewable energy options available for TCI, along with current costs, projected future costs, and other risk factors. Phase two takes into account the technical and financial implications and seeks to narrow the potential least-cost options further to meet the energy needs of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Phase three of the process will see the production of an R-NETS report and implementation plan. This report, also referred to as an Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), details the technical and economic concerns of the chosen future path and any implications on customer rates, reliability, environmental sustainability and resiliency of the plan.

“We are pleased to partner with FortisTCI and the TCI Government to advance important national interests in the electricity sector. This inclusive process invites all stakeholders to have a seat at the table and work toward selecting resilient and cost-effective technology solutions, in support of advancing the shared priorities of the TCI,” said Roy Torbert, principal at RMI.

Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Planning Hon. Goldray Ewing said, “this is a pivotal moment for the Turks and Caicos Islands energy sector, since this undertaking will chart the course and establish our energy landscape for the short, medium and long term.  This collaborative engagement could not have occurred at a more opportune time, given Cabinet’s recent approval for the drafting of legislation for the implementation of integrated resource planning for the sector.  This of course will allow for more rigid regulatory oversight and involvement in the development of the electricity sector, in alignment with the objectives of least cost generation, reliability, and environmental and economic sustainability of the sector.”

FortisTCI President & CEO Eddinton Powell said, “FortisTCI is fully committed to the R-NETS process and is looking forward to collaborating with the Turks and Caicos Islands Government and Rocky Mountain Institute in further developing the electricity sector in these islands. Creating a joint strategy is the right approach and serves as the first step toward modernizing the electricity sector and expanding the energy mix in ways that are beneficial to all stakeholders. This will strengthen and grow our economy.”

Public consultation meetings will be held at the Gustavus Lightbourne Sports Complex on the 3rd of October in Providenciales and at the H.J. Robinson High School Auditorium in Grand Turk on the 4th of October. RMI will lead both meetings scheduled to begin at 6 p.m.  All interested persons are encouraged to attend to learn more about the R-NETS process and expected outcomes.

 

Release: TCIG

 

 

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TCI Border Force Hosts Border Security Training for Overseas Territories

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Turks and Caicos, February 12, 2025 – The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) Border Force recently concluded a series of critical training exercises focused on container targeting, search procedures, and firearms awareness. This initiative, a vital investment in regional security, saw TCI Border Force officers joined by colleagues from the Anguilla Customs Department, BVI Customs Department, and Cayman Islands Customs and Border Control.

The training, conducted from 21st to 31st January, was facilitated by a team from Home Office International Operations through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Border Security Programme and organised via the Integrated Security Funding Overseas Territories Border Security Programme. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of the UK government and participating agencies to combat transnational crime and the flow of illicit goods within the Overseas Territories.

The curriculum encompassed three courses. The first, Fundamentals of Container Targeting (21st-24th January), focused on enhancing participants’ understanding of current priorities and container targeting capabilities, risk analysis within container traffic, and practical exercises utilising intelligence flows. The second, Search of Containers, saw participants receive specialised training on current threats facing the shipping industry and best practices for container search procedures. Finally, a crucial course on Firearms Awareness provided instruction on various types of firearms and the identification of firearm parts, equipping officers with the knowledge necessary to interdict illegal weapons.

These training exercises represent a significant step forward in strengthening the TCI Border Force’s ability to facilitate trade while protecting the borders of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Enhanced targeting and search capabilities will lead to more effective screening of cargo and potentially shorter processing times for legitimate shipments. Greater security will also be evident as the increased focus on firearms awareness will contribute to a safer environment.

“This training is a crucial investment in the safety and security of the Turks and Caicos Islands,” stated Emilio Seymour; Director General of TCI Border Force. “By working collaboratively with our regional partners and leveraging the expertise of the Home Office, we are significantly improving our ability to detect and deter criminal activity. The enhanced skills acquired by our officers will have a direct and positive impact on our community, protecting our economy and ensuring a safer environment for all.”

The TCI Border Force remains committed to protecting the borders of the Turks and Caicos Islands and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens. This training initiative represents a significant investment in that commitment.

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Solar PV Projects Completed at Critical Turks and Caicos Islands Healthcare Facilities

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Grand Turk Wellness Center

PRESS RELEASE

 

FROM THE Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities

South Caicos

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands 11th February 2025 – The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) have taken a significant step toward a more sustainable energy future with the installation of five (5) solar photovoltaic (PV) systems at key healthcare facilities across the archipelago.

This initiative, funded by the European Union through the Resilience, Sustainable Energy, and Marine Biodiversity Programme (RESEMBID) and implemented by Expertise France, aims to enhance sustainability, reduce operational costs for the TCI Government, and contribute to long-term economic viability.

North Caicos

The solar PV systems have been strategically installed at critical medical facilities, including the Blue Hills Clinic in Providenciales, the Bottle Creek Clinic in North Caicos, the Alsada Hall-Malcolm Primary Healthcare Clinic in Middle Caicos, the South Caicos Primary Health Clinic, and the Wellness Centre in Grand Turk. These healthcare centers provide essential services to local communities, and the integration of solar energy demonstrates TCI’s commitment to environmental responsibility and energy efficiency within vital public sectors.

Leading this transformative initiative is the Energy and Utilities Department (EUD) under the Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities (MPSU). The EUD has overseen the installation and integration of these solar PV systems within the local energy landscape, leveraging the islands’ abundant sunshine which averages approximately 350 sunny days per year — an ideal setting for solar energy generation. These systems, equipped with advanced battery storage solutions, will significantly reduce electricity costs for healthcare facilities while ensuring uninterrupted power supply during grid outages or energy supply challenges.

Middle Caicos

EUD Commissioner Delano R. Arthur emphasized the importance of this initiative: “The solar PV systems will greatly reduce electricity costs and symbolize our shift toward a sustainable energy future. This investment not only strengthens energy security, but reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels, lowering carbon emissions and environmental impact.”

The collaboration between the European Union, Expertise France, and local government agencies ensures that the project aligns with international renewable energy standards, benefiting both the environment and the community. Installation was successfully carried out by Green Revolution Ltd., a local company committed to advancing sustainable development in TCI. Their involvement highlights the importance of local expertise and community engagement in executing renewable energy initiatives.

Blue Hills

For further information, please contact:

Energy and Utilities Department (EUD)
Email: eud@gov.tc

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SHARK INCIDENT, BLUE HILLS

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12 February 2025, Providenciales – On Friday 7 February a tourist was injured by a shark in the waters adjacent to Blue Hills, Providenciales.

The individual was taken to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre where she was stabilized and later flown off island for further medical care.

Upon confirmation of the incident the Department of Environment & Coastal Resources (DECR) issued a beach closure notification from Thompson’s Cove Beach to Froggies ATV, Blue Hills in an abundance of caution. The beach was reopened on Sunday, February 9th at 1pm after it was determined that the shark had moved to deeper water.

The shark was estimated to be approximately 6ft in length, however the species is yet to be confirmed.

Further to the investigation, it has been determined that the tourist had attempted to engage with the animal from the shallows in an attempt to take photographs.

The DECR would like to urge the public to always  be aware of your surroundings, follow local advisories, and respect marine life. Swim in designated areas, avoid murky waters, never swim alone, and do not attempt to feed marine wildlife under any circumstances

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