Turks and Caicos Islands Advances Energy Resilience with the RESEMBID Project

Minister for Public Safety and Utilities, Honourable Kyle Knowles

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 22 November 2024: The Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands is proud to announce the ongoing success of the RESEMBID (Resilience, Sustainable Energy, and Marine Biodiversity) project, a transformative initiative funded by the European Union and implemented by Expertise France. This project underscores the government’s commitment to building a sustainable and resilient energy future for the Turks and Caicos Islands.

This week, the islands were honoured to host Aniceto Rodriguez Ruiz, First Counsellor – Head of Cooperation for the European Union, who visited to assess the project’s progress and reaffirm the EU’s dedication to fostering resilience and sustainability in the Caribbean Overseas Countries and Territories. During his visit, Mr. Rodriguez Ruiz met with Hon. Kyle Knowles, Minister for Public Safety and Utilities, and Hon. Josephine Connolly, Minister of Tourism and the Environment, to discuss the project’s achievements, ongoing efforts, and plans for further implementation.

Key Objectives of the RESEMBID Project:

1. Renewable Energy Integration: Accelerating the adoption of solar and wind energy to decrease reliance on imported fossil fuels, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and establish a cleaner, more sustainable energy landscape.
2. Energy Efficiency Initiatives: Launching public education campaigns and providing incentives to promote energy conservation and the use of energy-efficient technologies.
3. Infrastructure Resilience: Enhancing the durability of energy infrastructure to withstand natural disasters, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply during emergencies.
4. Capacity Building: Equipping local professionals with the knowledge and skills to manage advanced energy systems, fostering job creation and professional growth.

Minister for Public Safety and Utilities, Hon. Kyle Knowles, commenting on the project, stated:

First Counsellor – Head of Cooperation for the European Union, Aniceto Rodriguez Ruiz

“The RESEMBID Project represents a pivotal step in our journey toward a sustainable future. By integrating renewable energy, strengthening our infrastructure, and empowering our people, we are not only reducing our environmental footprint but also ensuring that the benefits of this transformation are felt by all residents and businesses. The support of the European Union has been invaluable, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and inclusivity throughout this process.”

Remarks from Aniceto Rodriguez Ruiz, First Counsellor – Head of Cooperation for the European Union:

“The RESEMBID Project highlights the EU’s steadfast commitment to supporting resilience and sustainability in the Caribbean region. The Turks and Caicos Islands are leading the charge with innovative approaches to renewable energy and environmental stewardship, and it is inspiring to see their progress firsthand.”

The Turks and Caicos Islands Government remains resolute in its dedication to creating a robust, sustainable energy system that will have long-lasting positive impacts on residents, businesses, and the environment. The RESEMBID Project exemplifies how international partnerships can drive meaningful change, benefiting current and future generations.

PHOTO CAPTION

Header: Left to right: Director of DECR, Luc Clerveaux; Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Tourism, Wesley Clerveaux; First Counsellor,

Head of Cooperation for the European Union, Aniceto Rodriguez Ruiz; Honourable Josephine Connolly, Minister of Tourism;

Honourable Kyle Knowles, Minister for Public Safety and Utilities; Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities, Desmond Wilson; and Commissioner of Energy and Utilities, Delano Arthur.