News
Small Island Developing States claim for OTEC at COP28
Dubai, 7 December 2023 – As the world converges for COP28, a side event has shed light on Ocean Energy for Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Hosted on the 6th of December at the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) pavilion, in Dubai, the session had its focus on the blue and green economy aspirations of SIDS, with a special highlight for Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC). The common claim was that the technology is well suited for the renewable energy transition in tropical islands around the globe, which are currently mainly powered by fossil fuels.
Harnessing the SIDS’ main natural resource, the ocean, OTEC technology will have its first commercial implementation in São Tomé and Príncipe, Africa, by 2025. Designed by British startup Global OTEC, the project can half diesel costs. “This is a remarkable change in fortunes from the status quo of expensive and dirty fossil fuel imports. As we have concluded that the first-of-a-kind would produce electricity for a considerably lower unit cost than diesel, we also know it will fall dramatically as we scale up and deliver bigger and more ambitious projects”, says Global OTEC Founder and CEO Dan Grech.
Facing several challenges for power generation through fossil fuels, SIDS are now claiming more investment in OTEC. Representatives of Tonga, Dominica, Seychelles, Tuvalu and Barbados made references to Ocean Energy and OTEC in their remarks. Countries such as Bermuda, Palau, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Bahamas and Grenada also attended the session.
The Minister for Infrastructure, Natural Resources, and Environment (MIRNMA) of São Tomé and Príncipe, Hon. Adelino Rosa Cardoso, highlighted that the project needs additional financial support to supplement what the private sector is contributing. “Several SIDS are anxiously waiting on Dominique’s deployment, that’s why my government, along with our private sector partner, Global OTEC, are aggressively engaged with our development partners to see how we can accelerate Dominique’s deployment.”
As São Tomé and Príncipe is setting the path for SIDS renewable energy transition through the ocean, other tropical islands are already waiting in line to be next to receive OTEC floating platforms. “We, SIDS, really have no choice in terms of energy, we are running out of land, and we don’t have much space for solar. But we have one space that we can’t ever run out of, which is our oceans. So it’s only enlightening that we can see partnerships that focus on this resource, a resource that can save us but also can save the planet”, notes the SIDS DOCK Secretary General Dr Al Binger.
Ocean energy can play a critical role in changing how SIDS are powered, as other renewables are less respectful to their particularities and needs. In bringing attention to OTEC’s potential in driving sustainable development and energy independence for tropical islands, COP28 is contributing towards a cleaner future for over 600 million people. “We are large ocean states, and it would be, in my mind, an injustice to our people if we refuse to continue to make the case for ocean technology. Whether in the form of wave, or OTEC, we need to make that argument”, concludes Hon. Dr. Vince Henderson, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business, Trade, and Energy of Dominica.
Caption: Global OTEC Founder and CEO Dan Grech, Minister for Infrastructure, Natural Resources, and Environment (MIRNMA) of São Tomé and Príncipe, Hon. Adelino Rosa Cardoso, and the Secretary General of SIDS DOCK Dr Al Binger
About Global OTEC:
Global OTEC is a UK-based private company set up to accelerate the commercialisation of a floating OTEC technology to develop zero-carbon, baseload, clean energy sources that achieve maximum impact in empowering Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Least Developing Countries (LDCs) and Coastal Nations with energy security whilst helping the Earth reduce greenhouse gas emissions and eventually eliminate total dependence on fossil fuels.
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (March 5, 2026) – As the Turks and Caicos sporting community celebrates the spirit of
youth athleticism, leading telecoms provider, Flow is highlighting the transformative power of connectivity following the successful conclusion of the 2026 Inter-High Track and Field Championships held at the Turks and Caicos Islands National Stadium from February 26 to 28.
As the Official Media Sponsor for the event, Flow provided livestreaming services that premiered across social media and on Flow TV’s Channel 111. This ensured that families and fans throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands could witness every record-breaking moment. To keep the event running at top speed, Flow also provided broadband services throughout the venue, maintaining seamless connectivity throughout the games.
“Our long-standing partnership with the Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission is a shared promise to invest in the next generation. Over the years we have worked together to create opportunities for young people to train, compete and grow,” said Joanne Missick, Country
Manager, Flow Turks and Caicos Islands.
“We make this investment because sport develops more than athletes. It’s a long-term investment for us in our people, pride and possibility, and it’s a partnership we hold close because advancing our youth advances the entire nation.”
The commitment to the Games extended directly to the track, where Flow served as the headline sponsor for the 200-meter category. Spanning seven races, the partnership culminated during the official medal ceremony with the company presenting winners with Flow merchandise bags.
Off the track, Flow mobilised engagement through the interactive sales booth. The site became a hub for activity, featuring Spin the Wheel promotions and gift certificate giveaways during Q&A intermissions, ensuring the energy of the crowd remained high.
Looking ahead, Flow is preparing to carry this momentum into the upcoming Inter-Primary Track and Field Championships, continuing its investment in the next generation of sporting talent in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey has been recognised for his contribution to national security and the tourism industry, receiving the Distinguished Civic Service Award at the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association’s Star Awards held on February 19, 2026 at Beaches Turks and Caicos.
The annual awards ceremony is the premier recognition event for the territory’s hospitality sector, bringing together industry leaders,
executives and frontline professionals to celebrate excellence and the individuals whose work strengthens the destination’s global reputation.
Commissioner Bailey was honoured for his strategic leadership in the fight against crime and the measurable reductions in major offences, efforts widely credited with improving public confidence and reinforcing the Turks and Caicos Islands’ standing as a safe and competitive tourism jurisdiction.
In accepting the award, the Commissioner dedicated the recognition to the officers and staff of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, praising their commitment and professionalism in what he described as a collective national effort to make the islands more secure.
The TCHTA Star Awards spotlight the link between public safety and tourism performance, acknowledging that a stable and safe environment is essential to visitor confidence, investment and the continued growth of the sector.
This year’s ceremony featured high-energy hosting by Super P the Entertainer, with Omega serving as awards announcer, as the industry gathered to honour the people and partnerships that continue to elevate the Turks and Caicos brand.
(Providenciales – Monday, March 2, 2026) TCI Hospital proudly announces the successful achievement of its Heart Strong TCI initiative, a comprehensive Heart Month campaign focused on raising awareness and strengthening cardiovascular disease prevention efforts across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the Turks and Caicos Islands, highlighting the critical need for sustained public education, risk-factor reduction, and early intervention. The Heart Strong TCI initiative was designed to actively engage the community through education, outreach, and physical activity.
Key Activities Included:
Educational Training Sessions
Healthcare professionals conducted structured sessions addressing hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol management, nutrition, exercise, smoking cessation, and the early warning signs of heart disease.
House Call Talk Show Feature
A dedicated Heart Month episode of the hospital’s House Call program provided expert discussion on cardiovascular risk factors and prevention strategies, empowering viewers with practical, evidence-based guidance.
Red Fridays Awareness Campaign
Throughout the month, staff wore red every Friday to increase visibility around heart disease awareness and reinforce the campaign’s message within the community.
Heart Strong 5K Walk/Run
In collaboration with the Rotary Club, TCI Hospital hosted a community-wide 5K walk/run to promote physical activity as a cornerstone of
heart health. The walk/run also provided an opportunity for community screening.
Digital Health Education Campaign
To expand its reach, TCI Hospital also shared ongoing heart health education tips and prevention messages across its social media platforms, including Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. These posts provided actionable guidance on diet, exercise, blood pressure control, and lifestyle modification, and encouraging community members to learn CPR.
Heart Strong TCI: A Continuous Commitment
While Heart Month has officially ended, Heart Strong TCI represents an ongoing institutional commitment to cardiovascular disease prevention and awareness. TCI Hospital will continue to prioritize:
- Community-based education initiatives
- Preventative screening and early detection programs
- Lifestyle and wellness promotion
- Strategic partnerships that advance public health outcomes
“Heart Strong TCI is not limited to a single month,” CEO, Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant. “Cardiovascular disease prevention requires sustained effort. We remain committed to promoting healthy hearts across the Turks and Caicos Islands year-round.”
For more information about cardiovascular health services or upcoming screening initiatives, please contact TCI Hospital at 649-941-2800 in Providenciales, 649-941-2900 in Grand Turk or email us at info@interhealthcanada.tc
About TCI Hospital
TCI Hospital is dedicated to delivering high-quality healthcare services to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands, with a strong emphasis on prevention, education, and community wellness.
