STATUS OF RENEWABLE ENERGY PROGRAMS IN CARIBBEAN ISLANDS

ABSTRACT The Caribbean is a complex region of different peoples, cultures, economies and resource bases. With the exception of one, all are dependent almost entirely on imported oil to meet their energy needs. Yet there are significant opportunities to develop their renewable energy resources. Research, development, demonstration, and to some extent distribution of renewable energy systems have begun. These range from research into OTEC, solar ponds, windmills and solar cooling. In part the impetus to develop these systems comes from assistance from outside the Caribbean. Indigenous competencies are increasing, however. In recent years the level of effort has increased significantly, to the extent that renewable energy programs exist throughout the region.