The Renewable Energy Industry in CARIFORUM Countries

BELIZE

RENEWABLE ENERGY INDUSTRY STAKEHOLDER ASSESSMENT

3.4.6 | RENEWABLE ENERGY COMPANIES

Belize has an energy mix of about 54% RE; one of the highest in the Caribbean region. This is due to 9 utility scale IPPs and not smaller scale distributed generation. This represents a disconnect between written policy and what is supported and practiced in the RE industry. As a result, the RECs are underutilized. There are about 12 registered RECs but not all are functional and not all are registered as certified implementers. This excludes the utility- sized companies; Belize Electricity Company Limited (BECOL) and Belize Co-generation Energy Limited (BELCOGEN). RECs have on average 7 staff. These RECs have been in business for an average of 10 years, varying from 7 to 11 years of experience. Their scope of operations covers most of the local market needs for the residential and commercial segments. Subcontracted work includes some equipment installations and solar water heaters. Their relationships with the other key stakeholders are depicted in the diagram right The RECs do not have very beneficial relationships but remain engagedwith all stakeholders in the hope of an improved RE industry. Their opportunities are few and restrictive.

LEAD GOVERNMENT MINISTRIES

PRIVATE SECTOR INSTITUTIONS

REGIONAL INSTITUTIONS

RENEWABLE ENERGY COMPANIES

FUNDING AGENCIES

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

UTILITY REGULATOR

Figure 3.21 | Relationships of Belize’s Renewable Energy Companies

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The Renewable Energy Industry in CARIFORUM Countries