Chebat on Energy: Measures to Find Alternative Sources Should have Started Years Ago

Michel Chebat

Minister Chebat said that the energy sector, particularly as it relates to the shortfalls with our national grid, should have gotten the attention it needed a decade ago. But, the government is seeking to open up the market to companies here that can provide energy. Coupled with that, the government is also working with the Public Utilities Commission and B.E.L to address the matter.

Michel Chebat, Minister of Public Utilities

“It is concerning. We need to look at additional sources of energy and we need to make sure that we have enough to supply not only the current demand, but as I said earlier, what we see in the pipeline. When C.F.E says that it has to take care of its primary consumers in the first instance, going through a heat wave at the moment and what have you. And looking at where we are as Belize, we’re still purchasing energy from them. Uh, what plans do we have in store?”

Isani Cayetano

“What mechanisms do we have that ensures that we are able to provide for our own?”

Michel Chebat

“Right. So, you know, I think in 20 years and nothing has happened until now, and again, it goes to planning. It goes to seeing what’s coming down the road. The problems that C.F.E is having is only now being exacerbated by heat wave we had. But the fact of the matter is we knew all along that they have been having difficulties. And so we should have planned a long time ago, 10 years ago, to match the shortfall that we were already seeing that is happening. That being said, it is our responsibility as a government to open up this market for new entrance into this market for new providers of electricity into this market. And that is exactly what we’re doing. We are working along with the P.U.C and with B.E.L to come up with an R.F.P so that we can have additional sources of energy for the country.”