National

Energy Expert: Keeping The Lights On Is Most Important

Published

6 months ago

June 11, 2024

Berthony McDermott

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – One day after the government released its plans to reform the energy sector, a former energy director at The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce says keeping the lights on was the main point coming out of Monday’s big reveal. While Debbie Deal believes it will benefit consumers in the long run, she says a lot still needs clarifying.

The former director of energy and environment for The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation says this is what took precedence ahead of Monday’s announcement: “We talk… lights on.”

On Monday, Energy Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis revealed the government will enter into a partnership with Island Grid for the modernization of BPL’s electricity grid and transmission and distribution network in New Providence. She also announced the use of liquefied natural gas to be purchased from Shell.

Deal commented, “I see… and running.”

The Family Islands weren’t left out. The government’s plan includes building utility-scale solar power in the Family Islands. From her perspective, Deal says the Family Islands desperately need it: “They really… be great.”