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Nevis Volcano, Nevis & St. Kitts (source: flickr/ Stuck in Customs, creative commons)

Carlo Cariaga27 Mar 2019

St. Kitts and Nevis and the European Union have come to an agreement that will provide 5 million euros of funding for the development of the island state’s renewable energy sector.

The dual-island state of St. Kitts and Nevis will receive EUR 5 million of financial support from the European Union under the recently signed Sector Budget Support Programme. The objective of the programme is to develop a sustainable energy sector in the region through the development of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies in public facilities.

The installation of energy-efficient street lights, an underground electrical power supply to three pumping stations, and the establishment of an Energy unit are just some of the expected outcomes from the initiative. It will also attempt to make basic water and electricity needs more accessible even in extreme circumstances, such as hurricanes.

The funding will provide support for the participating of the private sector in the development of the renewable energy sector, further aided by energy reforms which will promote business opportunities.

Through a series of policy initiatives and specific investments, the Government strives to promote sustainable economic development and a reduced dependence on fossil fuels. St. Kitts and Nevis, a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), continues to struggle with the effects of climate change and environmental degradation. These have been made more apparent following the passing of Hurricanes Irma and Maria in September 2017.