CASTRIES, Saint Lucia, Dec. 12, 2014, CNS – The Ministry of Sustainable Development, Energy, Science and Technology this week hosted a delegation of technical experts from the World Bank, the United Kingdom (UK) Department for International Development (DFID) and the New Zealand Government who were here to advance the Saint Lucia Geothermal Resource Development Project.
On Wednesday, the teams from the World Bank and the New Zealand Government made presentations to Permanent Secretaries and senior government officials from a number of key Ministries who will be integrally involved in facilitating the geothermal development.
The delegation also discussed issues relating to land and the development of a public engagement strategy with the people of Soufriere. This community engagement strategy is expected to commence early in the New Year. Already in-depth discussions have commenced with the Piton Management Area staff and the Soufriere Regional Development Foundation to discuss how Soufriere may be more integrally involved in the project planning and execution phases. Other issues being discussed relate to employment and technical training opportunities; debunking myths which people may have about the risks associated with the project and to provide reassurances; issues related to removal of vegetation; use of water; management of discharges; respect for indigenous cultural icons and practices; and visual amenities.
So far, a combined total of US$2.8 million in financial and technical assistance grants have been invested into the geothermal project by the World Bank and the New Zealand Government, with supplementary funding of US$1 million from Saint Lucia`s Global Environment Facility (GEF) allocation`s fifth disbursement .
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Energy, Science and Technology received the signed contracts for the GEF and SIDSDOCK grants on Wednesday and these will be forwarded to the Prime Minster for his signature.
The Geothermal Resource Development Project in Soufriere is a key pillar of Saint Lucia`s Sustainable Energy programme, as it has the potential to provide a steady base-load of electricity; stabilize energy prices way into the future; attract investment as a result; and place Saint Lucia on an irreversible path to sustainable economic development.
