A meeting on synergism and cooperation in the energy sector: TCI and Cayman Islands Ministers of Energy Share Ideas and Experiences

#TurksandCaicos, July 31, 2023 – In a brief but landmark meeting, two active and prominent Ministers of Energy from the Turks and Caicos Islands and the Cayman Islands recently came together for a “face-to-face meeting of the minds” aimed to harness the power of synergism and cooperation, promoting the exchange of ideas and experiences in the field of energy management. This momentous meeting was held to address local energy challenges and pave the way for a cleaner and greener future for both Territories. This meeting between two Ministers of Energy exemplifies the spirit of synergism, reflecting a growing recognition that global challenges require collective local actions.  The fuel supply chain has affected the cost of electricity, especially when power is generated using diesel, and the need to transition to green energy.

The meeting was attended by Hon. Otis Morris of TCI, Cayman Islands’ Minister of Transportation, Energy, Public Works, and Planning, Hon. Jay Ebanks; Cayman Islands’ former Premier and MP Hon. McKeeva Bush; EUD Commissioner Engr. Delano R. Arthur, EUD Energy Analyst Dr. Eric F. Salamanca, and EUD Fuel Officer Mrs. Thea Calder were held on July 25, 2023, at the Customs Department Conference Room, Providenciales.

In the energy sector, synergism is an important principle because it represents the combined effort of diverse stakeholders working towards common objectives. By combining resources, ideas, expertise, and experiences, Territories of similar political structures, key industry players, and similar main economic sources of income (tourism) can tackle energy-related issues that transcend national boundaries.

In the meeting, the following were discussed:

• Renewable Energy Integration. Both ministers highlighted the significance of integrating renewable energy sources into their respective energy grids. They discussed the challenges and opportunities of harnessing solar, wind (on-shore and Off-shore) power and explored strategies to facilitate seamless integration into existing energy systems. The idea of agrivoltaics (combining RE with agriculture) was discussed.
• Energy Storage Solutions. The EU Commissioner, Engr. Arthur emphasized the importance of energy storage technologies by the Public Utility to address intermittency issues related to renewable energy sources. Discussions included advancements in battery technologies, grid-scale storage, and potential partnerships in research and development to improve storage efficiency.
• Energy Efficiency Measures. The ministers agreed that energy conservation and reducing wasteful consumption, both nations sought to lessen their carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices.
• Climate Change Mitigation. Climate change remains a global concern, and the ministers deliberated on ways to align their efforts to combat this pressing issue, especially in the context where Renewable Energy can reduce emissions of Greenhouse Gases (GHS). They explored ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase reliance on cleaner energy sources, further emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in this endeavor.

The meeting concluded with both ministers expressing their commitment to continued cooperation and synergistic efforts.  They pledged to work hand-in-hand toward achieving their shared vision of a sustainable, resilient, and low-carbon energy future. This joint commitment reflects the power of diplomacy and collaboration in advancing the global energy transition.

The meeting of two Ministers of Energy, driven by the principles of synergism and cooperation, demonstrated that confronting complex energy challenges requires collective action.  By sharing ideas and experiences, countries/territories can learn from each other, leverage their strengths, and collectively work towards a greener and more sustainable future.  As the global energy landscape evolves, such collaborations will prove to be instrumental in overcoming obstacles and realizing the potential of renewable energy for the benefit of all humanity.