The Renewable Energy Industry in CARIFORUM Countries

RENEWABLE ENERGY INDUSTRY STAKEHOLDER ASSESSMENT

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

Their relationship with the other key stakeholders is depicted in the diagram right.

LEAD GOVERNMENT MINISTRIES

HEIs have demonstrated an openness to collaboration and cooperate with RE stakeholders but opportunities are limited. They depend on public sector and private sector funds in order to serve the job market which is primarily for their existence.

PRIVATE SECTOR INSTITUTIONS

REGIONAL INSTITUTIONS

HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

FUNDING AGENCIES

RENEWABLE ENERGY COMPANIES

UTILITIES REGULATOR

Figure 3.74 | Relationships of Trinidad and Tobago’s Higher Education Institutions

3.15.6 | RENEWABLE ENERGY COMPANIES

The RE market in Trinidad and Tobago is small because of the inadequate legislation and low cost of energy to consumers. This market is likely to remain unchanged unless both situations mentioned above are addressed. As a result, the EE market is more attractive. Given the interest amongst RECs, the correct environment is likely to be the catalyst for the RE Industry. The few RECs which currently operate in this sector offer a full range of RE and EE services. While not excluding the residential sector, the commercial sector is the focus of the REC’s activities. PV and SWH are the lowest risk technologies, but the financial returns are unattractive. RECs therefore struggle to generate local business in this sector and 50% of them look to the Caribbean region and South American countries for export business. RECs have on average 13 staff ranging from 5 to 35 employees and most companies cover a wider range of activities with only 20% focused on PV technology. These companies have been in business for an average of 13 years, varying from 5 to 20 years. Their scope of operations covers the current local market demand and they do outsource some installation and auditing in order to meet their residential and commercial demands. Their relationship with the other key stakeholders is depicted in the diagram on the following page.

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The Renewable Energy Industry in CARIFORUM Countries