The Minister for Infrastructure, Hon. Stephenson King, on Saturday, Jan. 12, spoke at the launch of the third cycle of the United Arab Emirates (UAE)-Caribbean Renewable Energy Fund. The launch was a special event held during the ninth session of the Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), in the United Arab Emirates.

According to the minister, this year, the Government of Saint Lucia will execute three key renewable energy projects under the second cycle of the UAE-Caribbean Renewable Energy Fund.

These projects are: the installation of photovoltaic systems at two more schools on the island, allowing for the generation of electricity from the sun. (This project will save taxpayers hundreds of thousands annually.); the provision of solar powered street lighting at the Hewanorra International Airport. (This project is incorporated in the design for the new terminal project which starts this year); and the construction of a solar carport equipped with electric vehicle charging stations at the Hewanorra International Airport.

Minister King expressed gratitude for the support received through the UAE-Caribbean Renewable Energy Fund, as Saint Lucia continues its transition toward a more sustainable future.