CASTRIES, St. Lucia, CMC – The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) says a recently held workshop in Colombia marks a pivotal moment in advancing geothermal projects within the sub-regional grouping.
It said the Geothermal Energy Decision Makers Workshop, organized as part of the GEOBUILD Programme, focused on enhancing the technical capacity of governments and key stakeholders, setting the stage for accelerated geothermal energy action.
“The workshop gave decision-makers a robust agenda covering geothermal basics, challenges, case studies, and collaborative activities,” adding, “The objectives, ranging from highlighting decision-making issues to examining key consultancies under GEOBUILD, were met with notable achievements.
“Decision-making tools were developed, and participants gained insights into government roles, financial partnerships, and project structures. Collaborative group work fostered a better understanding of OECS member states’ needs and the role of key consultancies.”
The St. Lucia-based OECS Commission said that the workshop sets the stage for implementing decision-making tools in geothermal projects, continued collaboration among OECS member states, and the application of lessons learned in future initiatives.
“The emphasis on a comprehensive capacity-building plan and collaboration with regional institutions emerged as critical steps for successful geothermal development.”
It said several critical lessons learned from geothermal energy exploration initiatives in Dominica and St. Vincent and the Grenadines underscored the importance of regular policy reviews, early capacity building, anticipating infrastructure needs, efficient land acquisition, and robust environmental protection laws.
“As the OECS continues its journey towards a greener energy future, collaboration, transparency, and strategic decision-making will remain key drivers,” it added.
The OECS groups the islands of Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Kitts-Nevis, and Montserrat.
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