A Bold Step Toward 100% Renewable Power
St. Kitts and Nevis is taking decisive action to transform its energy sector.
Hon. Dr. Joyelle Clarke, Minister of Environment, Climate Action, and Constituency Empowerment, is leading this national effort in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
At the Seventh Assembly of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) on August 22, 2023, Minister Clarke met with Asher Lessels, GEF Task Manager for mitigation projects in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Together, they discussed the GEF-7 National Project: Achieving Rapid Decarbonization of the Energy Sector in St. Kitts and Nevis, which was officially approved on May 11, 2023.
This landmark project aims to:
Transition St. Kitts and Nevis to 100% renewable electricity generation
Dramatically increase energy efficiency in public buildings
Key Highlights of the GEF-7 Energy Project
Inter-Ministerial Collaboration
Minister Clarke and Mr. Lessels underscored the critical importance of cross-ministry cooperation.
The Ministries of Energy, Environment, and Finance will work closely together to ensure a unified strategy and smooth implementation.
This holistic approach strengthens every stage of the project—from planning and funding to execution.
Project Steering Committee
A dedicated project manager and steering committee will be appointed to guide the initiative from start to finish.
This leadership team will:
Oversee timelines and budgets
Ensure compliance with environmental and energy goals
Coordinate with local stakeholders and international partners
By creating a strong governance structure, St. Kitts and Nevis is setting a model for effective energy-transition management.
Advancing Toward a Net-Zero Electricity Grid
This ambitious program supports the nation’s goal to become one of the first Caribbean countries to achieve a net-zero emission electricity grid.
By reducing dependence on fossil fuels and investing in clean technologies like solar, wind, and geothermal energy, St. Kitts and Nevis is moving closer to its vision of becoming a Sustainable Island State.
Benefits for the Nation
The project promises multiple long-term benefits:
Economic growth through green jobs and renewable energy investment
Energy independence, reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels
Lower greenhouse gas emissions, protecting the environment and combating climate change
Healthier communities, thanks to cleaner air and reduced pollution (#ad)
A Model for the Caribbean
By setting bold renewable-energy targets and working with international partners like UNEP and GEF, St. Kitts and Nevis is positioning itself as a regional leader in sustainable development.
The success of this initiative will not only transform the local energy landscape but also inspire neighboring Caribbean islands to pursue similar net-zero goals.