Competition in the electricity market may just be what is needed to drive the change from Government's fuel mix policy to natural gas, clean coal and renewable sources, according to a consultant on energy and public sector reform in the Cabinet Office.
The question of whether Jamaica can rise to the challenge of such a move will be addressed by Dr. Cezley Sampson when he speaks at the opening of the Geological Society of Jamaica's (GSJ) energy exhibition at the university of the West Indies next week.
The opening will take place at the Dramatic Theatre on November 28 at 9:30 a.m.
Critical issue
The quest for energy alternatives is a critical issue for Jamaica, which imports 25 million barrels of oil per annum for domestic consumption.
Dr. Sampson's material is appropriate for the GSJ's exhibition themed 'Jamaica's Energy Sources,' which is aimed at fostering an awareness and appreciation for the importance of earth science to Jamaica.
In addition to his consultative position with the Government, Dr. Sampson is also a part-time lecturer in the Department of Government, UWI, where he lectures Regulation of Utilities, Regulation of Financial Markets and Competition Policy, and is a visiting lecturer at the CUTS Institute of Regulation and Competition, India.
The GSJ exhibition on November 28 and 29 is the main activity for Geosciences for Development Week 2006. The exhibition is intended to be specifically helpful to students studying for GSAT, CXC and CAPE.