ABU DHABI, CMC—Prime Minister Dr. Terrence Drew says he intends St. Kitts-Nevis to become the “first green country in the world and will be a beacon of inspiration for others to follow” after participating in a signing ceremony here.
The St. Kitts=Nevis government has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the UAE-based K&K Group and Siemens Energy, a global leader in the energy business, to initiate the groundbreaking geothermal energy project in the twin island Federation.
A government statement said that the signing of this MoU initiates the feasibility studies, proposal planning, and technical documentation required for the commencement of the clean energy project.
“St. Kitts and Nevis will be the first green country in the world and will be a beacon of inspiration for others to follow. We may be small in size, but we are ambitious. As Prime Minister, I take leadership of the cause and ownership of the process,” Drew told the signing ceremony.
Executive member of Siemens Energy, Karim Amin, described Prime Minister Drew as “a visionary” who “appreciates the importance of the mission and opportunities for the wider region. Siemens will bring the most innovative technologies to the table and is committed to a robust, sustainable partnership”.
Chairman of the K&K Group, Dr. Tajeddine Seif, reiterated his firm’s commitment to excellence and partnership and expressed a sense of urgency in tapping into the islands’ geothermal resources.
“Just a few days ago, in Dubai, we experienced epic flooding in a desert and widespread destruction with the heaviest rainfall ever seen in the UAE in 75 years. If that does not inspire the world to act, nothing else will. Dr. Drew is acting and leading on this call”.
Siemens Energy is an integrated energy technology company that provides support along the energy value chain. Its focus is on low—or zero-emission power generation, transport, and storage while reducing GHG emissions and energy consumption in industrial processes.
The K&K Group is a premier market-leading private investment firm known for its strategic investments and innovation across various sectors. Investments are focused on renewable energy, green technologies, and sustainable infrastructure.
Basseterre said the clean energy project aims to harness the naturally occurring geothermal resources to produce clean, renewable power that will benefit all citizens and the Federation’s economic future. It said that this project aligns with the government’s vision for a sustainable future, which includes diversifying energy sources and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
“This project is one for the history books; it will enable St. Kitts and Nevis to significantly reduce its reliance on fossil fuels significantly, thereby lowering its carbon footprint, preserving its natural resources, and contributing to global efforts to combat climate change, thus ensuring a healthier environment for future generations,” Prime Minister Drew said.
”During the project’s development phase, we will create new employment opportunities, drive economic growth, and foster sustainable development across both islands and the wider region.”