by Larry Smith
The government is searching for consultants to advise on the development of a policy and technical framework to implement renewable energy in the Bahamas. The Inter-American Development Bank is contributing $700,000 towards the cost of this 12-month programme.
The immediate goal is to upgrade the Bahamas Electricity Corporation's operational and financial capacity in order to minimise the country's dependence on fossil fuels. The consultants will also be expected to set a strategy for BEC's expansion, together with the integration of alternative energy sources.
The consultants will undertake an operational review of the corporation, determine how to integrate renewable power into the generation mix, and recommend a regulatory framework for sustainable energy independence.
Expressions of interest are being sought by the BEST Commission of the Bahamas Ministry of the Environment - the deadline for submissions is this week. Six applicants will then be shortlisted and asked to present full proposals based on a detailed terms of reference.
The government is also looking for a consultant to promote sustainability through energy efficiency and conservation programmes together with demonstration projects in the public and private sectors.
The consultant will be expected to design and implement a national energy efficiency plan, undertake an assessment of renewable energy potential in the islands (with particular reference to wind, solar, bioemass and ocean thermal energy conversion), and implement a long-term public education programme for sustainable energy.
Again, six firms will be shortlisted and asked to submit full proposals based on detailed terms of reference. The value of this 12-month contract is $750,000, also funded by the IDB.
SHEC Energy, a Canadian company, has recently patented next generation solar thermal technology
that will reduce traditional power costs by over 40%. PLease call Constantine for more information at 416-239-9599 ext 8 or email krits@rogers.com
Posted by: Constantine Kritsonis | January 14, 2009 at 05:59 PM