Renewable energy of paramount importance

Honorable Amanda Missick, you have a very diverse background in education, real estate, accounting, and entrepreneurship. Please share with us how you entered politics and took over the portfolio of the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Planning.

My political aspirations were shaped by deeply felt personal experiences that helped me realize how little representation the people of my home town of Kew, North Caicos, had. As an advocate for people without a voice, I was adamant about changing this dilemma. Through my representation of the people from my island, as well as my advocacy for women and children, I came to the belief that I could do more good for people if I were in politics, since politicians often make the decisions that affect the lives of the underrepresented and underprivileged. It was then that I decided to actively pursue a political career focused on public service and improving the lives of all, especially women and children.

My present portfolio, the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Planning, was assigned to me by the premier after a ministerial shuffle in 2014, as he was convinced that with my tenacity, determination, and drive I would be able to steer the ministry toward the achievement of its goals, ensuring its success.

Real-estate development in the Turks and Caicos Islands has been very successful and high end. There is a US$100 million luxury resort hotel and marina underway in Turtle Cove. How important is it to create a balance between high-end developments catered to foreigners who want exclusivity and privacy and the development of a community that is integrated and inclusive?

This is an extremely important aspect for my government and for me. As tourism is our main industry, and by extension tourism development, we take great measures to ensure our guests are satisfied with their surroundings and that through the opportunities provided by these developments, our people do not in any way feel compromised or discriminated against.

Although many of the developments seek exclusivity and privacy, they are all embedded within the communities, which to some extent allows for amalgamation. In addition, our guests from all resorts are invited to and actively join with the local communities in local festivals, events, and any other island festivities that may be taking place.

Through these attempts, we manage to strike a healthy balance between safety and connection with community in an effort to bridge any gaps that maybe perceived.

In a nation with forty islands spread all over the sea, it is challenging to provide efficient and reliable connectivity to facilitate the movement of goods and people to and around the Turks and Caicos Islands. Providenciales has become the economic heart and central hub of the islands with access to all islands via various modes of transport. You are planning to improve the accessibility to other less-developed islands like Middle Caicos and East Caicos.

How is the government prioritizing this and what advantages will greater accessibility bring to the local people and the development of the nation?

As with all developing countries, roads and accessibility in the Turks and Caicos Islands are a top priority and we are constantly taking proactive measures to improve them to ensure safe and reliable roadways for all to travel.

The government is actively planning a spine road between the islands of Providenciales and South Caicos, prioritizing accessible routes through North, Middle, and East Caicos. This will undoubtedly benefit the wider Turks and Caicos and provide a wealth of opportunities, improving the accessibility to other less-developed islands like Middle Caicos and East Caicos and by extension the nation as a whole.

The higher the cost of energy, the greater the private incentive to invest in energy-saving technologies, and with a tropical climate within the Caribbean, Turks and Caicos Islands is ideal for both wind and solar technologies. Your administration has committed to Richard Branson’s Carbon War Room and is backing a renewable-energy agenda including reforms to the regulatory framework and encouraging individuals and businesses to use them where possible. How important is adopting renewable energy for the Turks and Caicos?

The Turks and Caicos government regards renewable energy and energy efficiency as critically important to the future of the energy sector and the economy as a whole. Over the years, efforts have been made to position the economy towards a more sustainable energy future. As part of our efforts on this pathway, several pieces of work were undertaken, namely: a study commissioned to implement an energy-conservation policy and implementation strategy; a review of the regulatory framework of the energy sector; the drafting of an energy policy; and the establishment of strategic partnerships with regional and international organizations to foster the necessary support for our initiatives.

What timeline are we looking at for new energy legislation and when might we see commercial-sized projects on the islands?

In terms of incentivizing the uptake of sustainable energy, the customs duties on renewable-energy systems have been reduced to a 0 percent duty rate, while energy-efficient appliances are levied a lower tariff rate than their conventional counterparts. Electric vehicles are also levied a much lower duty rate compared to fossil-fuel vehicles. These are all incentives aimed at supporting our sustainable-energy agenda.

Diesel is the primary source of fuel for electricity generation in the islands. We are aware of the negative impacts of fossil fuels on the environment and the vulnerability of the Turks and Caicos Islands to the effects of climate change. We are concerned about the devastating effects of climate change on small island states such as ours, being exposed to rising sea levels, increased intensity of hurricanes, increased water, ambient temperatures, and the overall negative effects on our fragile ecosystem, our infrastructure, and our tourism product.

Whilst the Turks and Caicos Islands’ contribution to greenhouse-gas emissions is negligible when compared to larger or more industrialized countries, we are cognizant of the need to minimize our carbon footprint. We are also cognizant of the need to show leadership by adopting measures and collaborating with other small territories to share experiences and best practices, not only improve our chances of success in our endeavors, but also to give clear signals that we are taking steps to address our energy challenges and minimize our impact on the environment.

Being a small territory also raises some pertinent issues that need to be addressed: our susceptibility to volatile fossil-fuel prices and the threat to energy security. We experienced the effects of the oil-price surge in 2008 and the negative impact it had on our economy.

Renewable energy therefore has a critical role to play in our energy mix, to help stabilize energy costs and prices. Renewable energy integrated into the energy mix can act as a hedge against future price surges similar to that of 2008.

There is also concern about energy security and the role renewable energy can play in improving our position. We are aware of our susceptibility to the effects of geopolitics on world crude oil supply and prices, and the limited avenues available to us to mitigate any harmful disruption of primary energy supply. Given the Turks and Caicos Islands’ exposure to potential fuel-supply disruption and the threat to our energy security, we see renewable energy having a role to play in this paradigm shift.

As it relates to the legislative and regulatory reform of the energy sector, the government has identified an experienced consultant to commence this critical piece of work. Our expectation is that we should have the new legislation in place in early 2016.

The renewable-energy company Urban Green Environmental installed in March 2014the first PV [photovoltaic] solar installation to be tied to the grid on the rooftop of Fortis, the local utility provider. How successful has this pilot project been and how are you working with Fortis to expand on your renewable-energy goals?

The PV solar installation pilot commissioned by Fortis TCI has been quite successful. The utility has been able to collect data to better understand the issues surrounding integration of solar PV to the grid.

The government has consulted Fortis TCI on all of the initiatives regarding renewable energy, energy efficiency, and comprehensive reform of the sector. The utility was consulted on all of the works: implementation of an energy-conservation policy and implementation strategy, the review of the regulatory framework governing the electricity sector, andthe draft energy policy. The legislative and regulatory-framework reform will see them come to the table to ensure candid discussions toward a pathway for a sustainable-energy future, among other issues.

Tourism numbers have been rising and there is pressure to increase the number of real estate projects, hotels, and other tourism-related developments like golf courses. There is also great ambition to realize important infrastructure projects including a deep-sea port to support greater trade, and a road to connect the islands for better access and socioeconomic development. How do you balance the importance of good accessibility and socioeconomic development with protecting the environmental landscape and beauty of the islands?

It is my and my government’s goal in protecting the environmental landscape and beauty of these islands to both lessen our collective global footprint and to evolve toward an environmentally sustainable economy. We have taken mitigating steps to enact environmentally sustainable policies encompassing commercial, industrial, and residential development.

The government has conducted and enacted advice derived from environmental impact assessments (EIAs). Among other concerns, these studies address the geotechnical issues, which involve scrutiny and subsequent advice to inform the structural design and understanding of its impact on the environment. Also, taking into account successes and failures experienced by other Caribbean destinations provides a plethora of knowledge, which allows avoidance in some regards, implementation of mitigating processes to avoid similar mistakes, and mimicking of effective practices.

Keeping in mind that the natural environment is the absolute foundation of the Turks and Caicos Islands economy and if we irreparably damage it, there will not be any economy left to grow. We make conscious decisions to limit unsustainable growth and encourage environmentally sound economic growth that will support present and future generations in a healthy, sustainable manner.

What message would you like to send them about Turks and Caicos Islands?

The Turks and Caicos are home to some of the world’s elite, who seek a pristine climate in bravura surroundings, as well as architecturally beautiful residences that echo tranquility, exquisiteness, and accessibility. The Turks and Caicos Islands offer perfection in every sense, as both a vacation haven and a residential sanctuary.

With a growing economy and a BBB+ credit rating from S&P [Standard & Poor’s]; no income taxes, property taxes, or capital gains taxes; and use of the U.S. dollar, the Turks and Caicos is definitely a smart investment haven. This, along with extraordinary travel ratings and awards, a very low crime rate, and the security of holding overseas British dependency status, we are by far well on our way to becoming one of the leading vacation destinations in the world.

Honorable Amanda Missick, you have a very diverse background in education, real estate, accounting, and entrepreneurship. Please share with us how you entered politics and took over the portfolio of the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Planning.

My political aspirations were shaped by deeply felt personal experiences that helped me realize how little representation the people of my home town of Kew, North Caicos, had. As an advocate for people without a voice, I was adamant about changing this dilemma. Through my representation of the people from my island, as well as my advocacy for women and children, I came to the belief that I could do more good for people if I were in politics, since politicians often make the decisions that affect the lives of the underrepresented and underprivileged. It was then that I decided to actively pursue a political career focused on public service and improving the lives of all, especially women and children.

My present portfolio, the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Planning, was assigned to me by the premier after a ministerial shuffle in 2014, as he was convinced that with my tenacity, determination, and drive I would be able to steer the ministry toward the achievement of its goals, ensuring its success.

Real-estate development in the Turks and Caicos Islands has been very successful and high end. There is a US$100 million luxury resort hotel and marina underway in Turtle Cove.

How important is it to create a balance between high-end developments catered to foreigners who want exclusivity and privacy and the development of a community that is integrated and inclusive?

This is an extremely important aspect for my government and for me. As tourism is our main industry, and by extension tourism development, we take great measures to ensure our guests are satisfied with their surroundings and that through the opportunities provided by these developments, our people do not in any way feel compromised or discriminated against.

Although many of the developments seek exclusivity and privacy, they are all embedded within the communities, which to some extent allows for amalgamation. In addition, our guests from all resorts are invited to and actively join with the local communities in local festivals, events, and any other island festivities that may be taking place.

Through these attempts, we manage to strike a healthy balance between safety and connection with community in an effort to bridge any gaps that maybe perceived.

In a nation with forty islands spread all over the sea, it is challenging to provide efficient and reliable connectivity to facilitate the movement of goods and people to and around the Turks and Caicos Islands. Providenciales has become the economic heart and central hub of the islands with access to all islands via various modes of transport. You are planning to improve the accessibility to other less-developed islands like Middle Caicos and East Caicos.

How is the government prioritizing this and what advantages will greater accessibility bring to the local people and the development of the nation?

As with all developing countries, roads and accessibility in the Turks and Caicos Islands are a top priority and we are constantly taking proactive measures to improve them to ensure safe and reliable roadways for all to travel.

The government is actively planning a spine road between the islands of Providenciales and South Caicos, prioritizing accessible routes through North, Middle, and East Caicos. This will undoubtedly benefit the wider Turks and Caicos and provide a wealth of opportunities, improving the accessibility to other less-developed islands like Middle Caicos and East Caicos and by extension the nation as a whole.

The higher the cost of energy, the greater the private incentive to invest in energy-saving technologies, and with a tropical climate within the Caribbean, Turks and Caicos Islands is ideal for both wind and solar technologies. Your administration has committed to Richard Branson’s Carbon War Room and is backing a renewable-energy agenda including reforms to the regulatory framework and encouraging individuals and businesses to use them where possible. How important is adopting renewable energy for the Turks and Caicos?

The Turks and Caicos government regards renewable energy and energy efficiency as critically important to the future of the energy sector and the economy as a whole. Over the years, efforts have been made to position the economy towards a more sustainable energy future. As part of our efforts on this pathway, several pieces of work were undertaken, namely: a study commissioned to implement an energy-conservation policy and implementation strategy; a review of the regulatory framework of the energy sector; the drafting of an energy policy; and the establishment of strategic partnerships with regional and international organizations to foster the necessary support for our initiatives.

What timeline are we looking at for new energy legislation and when might we see commercial-sized projects on the islands?

In terms of incentivizing the uptake of sustainable energy, the customs duties on renewable-energy systems have been reduced to a 0 percent duty rate, while energy-efficient appliances are levied a lower tariff rate than their conventional counterparts. Electric vehicles are also levied a much lower duty rate compared to fossil-fuel vehicles. These are all incentives aimed at supporting our sustainable-energy agenda.

Diesel is the primary source of fuel for electricity generation in the islands. We are aware of the negative impacts of fossil fuels on the environment and the vulnerability of the Turks and Caicos Islands to the effects of climate change. We are concerned about the devastating effects of climate change on small island states such as ours, being exposed to rising sea levels, increased intensity of hurricanes, increased water, ambient temperatures, and the overall negative effects on our fragile ecosystem, our infrastructure, and our tourism product.

Whilst the Turks and Caicos Islands’ contribution to greenhouse-gas emissions is negligible when compared to larger or more industrialized countries, we are cognizant of the need to minimize our carbon footprint. We are also cognizant of the need to show leadership by adopting measures and collaborating with other small territories to share experiences and best practices, not only improve our chances of success in our endeavors, but also to give clear signals that we are taking steps to address our energy challenges and minimize our impact on the environment.

Being a small territory also raises some pertinent issues that need to be addressed: our susceptibility to volatile fossil-fuel prices and the threat to energy security. We experienced the effects of the oil-price surge in 2008 and the negative impact it had on our economy.

Renewable energy therefore has a critical role to play in our energy mix, to help stabilize energy costs and prices. Renewable energy integrated into the energy mix can act as a hedge against future price surges similar to that of 2008.

There is also concern about energy security and the role renewable energy can play in improving our position. We are aware of our susceptibility to the effects of geopolitics on world crude oil supply and prices, and the limited avenues available to us to mitigate any harmful disruption of primary energy supply. Given the Turks and Caicos Islands’ exposure to potential fuel-supply disruption and the threat to our energy security, we see renewable energy having a role to play in this paradigm shift.

As it relates to the legislative and regulatory reform of the energy sector, the government has identified an experienced consultant to commence this critical piece of work. Our expectation is that we should have the new legislation in place in early 2016.

The renewable-energy company Urban Green Environmental installed in March 2014the first PV [photovoltaic] solar installation to be tied to the grid on the rooftop of Fortis, the local utility provider. How successful has this pilot project been and how are you working with Fortis to expand on your renewable-energy goals?

The PV solar installation pilot commissioned by Fortis TCI has been quite successful. The utility has been able to collect data to better understand the issues surrounding integration of solar PV to the grid.

The government has consulted Fortis TCI on all of the initiatives regarding renewable energy, energy efficiency, and comprehensive reform of the sector. The utility was consulted on all of the works: implementation of an energy-conservation policy and implementation strategy, the review of the regulatory framework governing the electricity sector, and the draft energy policy. The legislative and regulatory-framework reform will see them come to the table to ensure candid discussions toward a pathway for a sustainable-energy future, among other issues.

Tourism numbers have been rising and there is pressure to increase the number of real estate projects, hotels, and other tourism-related developments like golf courses. There is also great ambition to realize important infrastructure projects including a deep-sea port to support greater trade, and a road to connect the islands for better access and socioeconomic development. How do you balance the importance of good accessibility and socioeconomic development with protecting the environmental landscape and beauty of the islands?

It is my and my government’s goal in protecting the environmental landscape and beauty of these islands to both lessen our collective global footprint and to evolve toward an environmentally sustainable economy. We have taken mitigating steps to enact environmentally sustainable policies encompassing commercial, industrial, and residential development.

The government has conducted and enacted advice derived from environmental impact assessments (EIAs). Among other concerns, these studies address the geotechnical issues, which involve scrutiny and subsequent advice to inform the structural design and understanding of its impact on the environment. Also, taking into account successes and failures experienced by other Caribbean destinations provides a plethora of knowledge, which allows avoidance in some regards, implementation of mitigating processes to avoid similar mistakes, and mimicking of effective practices.

Keeping in mind that the natural environment is the absolute foundation of the Turks and Caicos Islands economy and if we irreparably damage it, there will not be any economy left to grow. We make conscious decisions to limit unsustainable growth and encourage environmentally sound economic growth that will support present and future generations in a healthy, sustainable manner.

What message would you like to send them about Turks and Caicos Islands?

The Turks and Caicos are home to some of the world’s elite, who seek a pristine climate in bravura surroundings, as well as architecturally beautiful residences that echo tranquility, exquisiteness, and accessibility. The Turks and Caicos Islands offer perfection in every sense, as both a vacation haven and a residential sanctuary.

With a growing economy and a BBB+ credit rating from S&P [Standard & Poor’s]; no income taxes, property taxes, or capital gains taxes; and use of the U.S. dollar, the Turks and Caicos is definitely a smart investment haven. This, along with extraordinary travel ratings and awards, a very low crime rate, and the security of holding overseas British dependency status, we are by far well on our way to becoming one of the leading vacation destinations in the world.

Thank you.