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"Accelerating Innovation, driving electrification" was the theme for this year's Ministry of Public Utilities, Energy, Logistics and E Governance's Energy Expo. It was held today at the Roaring River Golf Course and featured 25 booths, representing the business community, Academia, Conservation and other energy adjacent parties.
The purpose of the fair was to showcase innovations in the energy sector as the country moves towards what is called Belize's first renewable energy hub. The Minister of Public utilities and the Energy director shared more in his speech:
Michel Chebat, Minister of Public Utilities & Logistics
"Today's expo is a part of the broader CARICOM Energy Month under the theme accelerating innovation, driving electrification. A very fitting theme as today we have over 25 booths showcasing innovations in the energy sector and showcasing the future of transportation with electric mobility all possible under the goal of attaining sustainable energy for all."
"Sustainable energy for all is not only beneficial for the economy and the environment, but is also crucial for global equity. It represents the way forward. This is why our administration under plan Belize has formulated the national energy policy 2023-2023. The policy emphasizes an integrated approach not only in terms of identifying the right energy mix for our needs but also highlighting energies interrelationship with the global challenges we face. It underscores the necessity for partnerships to implement a new energy agenda."
"At the core of this policy is the Government of Belize's unwavering commitment on delivering a sustainable, secure, an affordable energy future for Belize. Belize endowed with abundant natural resources and a vibrant spirit towards environmental stewardship has already embarked on a journey towards sustainability as decarbonization takes center stage."
Ryan Cobb, Energy Director, Energy Unit
"Global oil prices volatility has affected economies across the world. Having seen severe declines in the past, many countries in the region may be tempted to wait for prices to rise again. However the situation is different. Governments needs new energy and development strategies."
Belize's drive to become a renewable energy hub offers a real option for economic development. With many countries now having renewable energy targets and it's such a large amount of new infrastructure necessary for countries to hit their proposed targets, countries like Belize will require develop expertise in a diverse range of roles from development manufacturing and ongoing management. This will necessitate academia to respond and work closely with regional and International experts. Industry leaders and government agencies to develop the sustainable talent pool to meet the challenges ahead.
"It is with this in mind that we will be working much more closely this coming year with our stakeholders with the development of the energy sector in all its forms. Whether it be electricity, biomass, liquid fuels or gaseous fuels. We will continue to collaborate to make the best use of our world-class resources."
