The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) government recently formally launched a green energy project that will have a long-term positive impact on the people and the environment of TCI.

The EU-funded RESEMBID project - “Transitioning Towards Green Energy in the Turks and Caicos Islands” – was officially launched on November 29, 2022. Implemented by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Transportation, Broadcasting, Energy and Utilities and Telecommunications Commission (MOHAT), the Project aims to strengthen the capacity of the TCI for a sustainable green energy transition and create long-term and meaningful change within the energy sector and across public systems in the islands. 

The Resilience, Sustainable Energy and Marine Biodiversity Programme (RESEMBID) is funded by the European Union and implemented by Expertise France - the development cooperation agency of the Government of France and supports sustainable human development efforts in 12 Caribbean Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs).

His Excellency, Governor Nigel Dakin, expressed gratitude to the European Union and RESEMBID for the grant funds and the technical assistance to accelerate the transition to green energy in TCI. Governor Dakin added: “I can see absolutely no doubt that this project will support sustainability… I know the Hon. Premier Washington Missick sees sustainability as one of the most important goals of his life.”

During the launch, Honourable Otis Morris, Minister of Home Affairs, Transportation, Broadcasting, Energy and Utilities and Telecommunications Commission said “I am optimistic that the project will strengthen TCI’s capacity to transition to clean energy in support of the TCI Vision 2040.” He emphasized that “the Ministry of Home Affairs will do what needs to be done to help the TCI transition to clean energy and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.” Permanent Secretary James Astwood encouraged everyone to join forces to transition to clean energy to help achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goal No. 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy by 2030) and indirectly SDG 13 (Climate Action) and encouraged citizens to think globally and act locally”.

Ms. Julia Morelli, RESEMBID Associate Programme Manager, congratulated the TCI for its initiative and progressive thinking. She stated: “The RESEMBID programme seeks to support the Caribbean Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) in their thrust to deliver resilient energy services to their respective local populations – which translate into increased capacity and competency of the people to utilize and maintain innovative technologies, whilst contributing to low carbon development locally and regionally.”

For more information about RESEMBID, please visit https://resembid.org/