The Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (CARILEC) is pleased to announce the successful completion of a series of strategic engagements in Washington, D.C. aimed at advancing Caribbean energy priorities and strengthening strategic partnerships that support the long-term resilience and transformation of the region’s electricity sector.
The visit was designed to position Caribbean utilities within global policy and financing discussions while clearly articulating the region’s energy needs investment opportunities and readiness for collaboration. Through targeted meetings with United States Federal Government and multilateral institutions, CARILEC highlighted the importance of energy security grid resilience and sustainable financing to the economic stability and climate resilience of Caribbean nations.
During the engagements the unique operating realities of Caribbean utilities including small, interconnected grids, exposure to extreme weather events, and dependence on imported fuels were discussed, and practical pathways for responsibly financed sustainable energy projects that can deliver measurable regional impact were considered. Discussions focused on translating policy interest into actionable investments that strengthen electricity infrastructure, support clean energy transitioning and accelerate post disaster recovery.
The delegation was led by Mr. Wayne Caines Chairman of the CARILEC Board and President and CEO of the Bermuda Electric Company, (BELCO) alongside Mr. Hugh Grant, President and CEO of Jamaica Public Service Company and coordinated through The Jones Group.
The engagement reinforced the strategic importance of the Caribbean energy sector and the role electric utilities play in national development and regional stability. Conversations with development finance partners explored opportunities for utility scale investments that can serve as models across CARILEC members. Ongoing dialogue with the Inter-American Development Bank reaffirmed a shared commitment to grid modernization, capacity building and long term sustainability.
Through these engagements CARILEC advanced a unified regional message that Caribbean utilities are prepared to implement sustainable and transformational energy solutions supported by structured financing and strong partnerships. CARILEC will continue to build on this momentum as it works with partners to deliver tangible outcomes that enhance reliability, resilience and energy security for the region.
