Empowering Grenada's Sustainable Energy Vision
Learn about USAID Strategic Support for Grenada in this article.
Situated in the heart of the Eastern Caribbean, Grenada finds itself at a crucial crossroads in its quest for a sustainable energy future. Guided by an unwavering dedication to scaling renewable energy regionally and harmonizing regulatory standards, the USAID Energy Sector Reform project lends vital support to Grenada's journey by providing strategic technical assistance to the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) of Grenada.
As a testament to this partnership, USAID collaborated with the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) to meticulously craft the Communication Strategy and Implementation Plan, initiated in July. This comprehensive strategy aimed to bolster the PURC’s communication, visibility, education, and awareness efforts which supported a series of Interim Tariff Consultations and stakeholder consultations from September through December 2023.
In August 2023, the USAID project submitted an array of communication tools to the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission. The project strategically tailored each tool to promote the organization’s mission by building bridges between complex energy policies and the general public. This treasure trove of communication materials, including fact sheets, infographics, and graphics, were designed to demystify technical topics and engage the public. These materials address topics such as the Interim Tariff; the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission's mission; the Self-Generator Program; the Small-Scale Independent Power Producer Pilot, and the Solar Renewables Program. These communications materials are indispensable tools for conveying the vision and goals of the PURC to all stakeholders, media outlets, and the citizens of Grenada.
In addition to strategic communications assistance, the USAID Energy Sector Reform project conducted a mission to Grenada from September 24 to October 3, 2023, to provide comprehensive organizational strengthening for the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission. This mission addressed several critical areas:
Stakeholder Mapping and Engagement: Laid the groundwork for a strategic blueprint, enhancing PURC's ability to connect with stakeholders in a precise and meaningful way.
Private Sector Consultations: Dialogued with key players in the renewable energy landscape – suppliers, installers, and project developers – to foster an environment conducive to the accelerated adoption of renewable energy.
Organizational Rebranding: Explored innovative strategies for reshaping the image and perception of the organization, breathing new life into its mission.
Organizational Change Management: Discussed navigating potential challenges in anticipation of a broader mandate that now includes water. This dialogue helps ensure a seamless transition for staff while preserving the organization's public image.
Media and Crisis Communication Training: Imparted invaluable skills to the PURC, empowering them to engage effectively with the media and expertly manage communications during times of crisis.
Interim Tariff Consultation Planning: Crafted a schedule and consultation calendar.
This mission unveiled both opportunities and challenges for Grenada’s Public Utilities Regulatory Commission. While the organization boasts dedicated leadership and a committed team, it grapples with internal utility coordination issues that impede the implementation of crucial renewable energy policies. Moreover, the political environment, public sentiment, and global energy price fluctuations, pose significant challenges to the PURC's mission.
Amid these challenges, the USAID Energy Sector Reform project remains a steadfast ally in the organization's journey. The project has delivered policy and regulatory support in three critical areas:
- Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) and Interconnection Agreements: Providing technical guidance to craft a PPA for Small-Scale Independent Power Producers and reviewing and recommending amendments to legal documents, ensuring regulatory alignment.
- Review of Licensing Regulatory Instruments: Assessing regulatory documents to clarify fees for energy generators and licensing rules, ensuring consistency with existing legislation and promoting regulatory transparency.
- Implementation of New Tariff Methodologies: Assisting in the implementation of new tariffs for the electricity sector, including interim tariffs, to navigate the challenges of rate changes during a period of increased energy costs.
"Our collaboration with Ms. Teocah Dove has been an incredibly positive experience. She has delivered exceptional support to our communications team at the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission of Grenada (PURC), fostering substantial growth and effectiveness within our department. Ms. Dove's involvement in crafting a Communication and Implementation Strategy for the commission was particularly instrumental in preparing us for her on-site mission in Grenada.
During her one-week mission, Ms. Dove actively engaged in our stakeholder consultations, affording her valuable insights into how she could further enhance her support for PURC. This hands-on experience highlighted specific areas of the strategy that required adjustment, ensuring it aligns perfectly with our objectives. Notably, Ms. Dove's commitment to strengthening our crisis communication processes, a critical facet for our regulatory body, has been greatly appreciated and has significantly bolstered our capacity.
As the mandated regulatory body in the energy sector, the support and tools provided by Ms. Dove have already led to significant improvements in our internal processes. We look forward to the continued benefits of this collaboration, which will undoubtedly contribute to our sustained growth and effectiveness."- Raheem Smith PURC Public Affairs Officer
The collaboration between the USAID project and the commission extends beyond a mere partnership. It is anticipated that the substantial technical support provided will empower Grenada’s Public Utilities Regulatory Commission to address challenges, enhance its efforts, and create a more conducive environment for the expansion of sustainable energy in Grenada. Grenada can depend on USAID’s unwavering support as a pivotal advocate for the organization's mission and a driving force in advancing the pursuit of a sustainable energy future.
