By JADE RUSSELL

Tribune Staff Reporter

jrussell@tribunemedia.net

THE Ministry of Transport and Energy will host a two-day energy summit from November 7 to November 8 under the theme “Accelerating the Bahamas Energy Transition through Innovative and Strategic Partnership”.

Minister of Transport and Energy JoBeth Coleby-Davis announced the summit during a press briefing at the Office of the Prime Minister on Monday.

November is designated as CARICOM Energy Month, aiming to raise awareness about community energy issues. Mrs Coleby-Davis said The Bahamas, as a CARICOM member, is committed to supporting sustainable energy efforts in the Caribbean.

The summit will take place at the Baha Mar Convention Centre, aiming to mobilise and engage energy partners, update the public on energy reform plans, promote energy efficiency, and deepen understanding of the energy sector.

Day one, open to the public, will feature an opening ceremony and panel discussions. Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis is expected to deliver the keynote address. There will also be a special presentation on electric vehicles in the public transportation sector.

Panel discussions will cover themes such as transforming Bahamas Power and Light (BPL), integrating renewable energy and microgrids for New Providence and the Family Islands, the role of energy in economic growth, and improving the regulatory framework.

Panelists will include representatives from BPL, Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD), The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation, Bahamas Tourism and Hospitality Association, the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA), and the Office of the Attorney General.

“A key highlight of the panel discussion on getting the regulatory framework right is an update on the national energy policy, which is currently being revised and improved through a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Energy and Transport and  URCA,” said Mrs Coleby–Davis.

Day two, closed to the public, will feature technical working sessions for energy partners and relevant government departments. Discussions will focus on timelines, organisation, key deliverables, and other commitments to ensure timely completion of energy projects.