At the core of a new energy initiative in Barbados, supported by the India-UN Development Partnership Fund, are insights and methodologies drawn from the experiences of Nigeria, Tanzania, and Trinidad and Tobago. The project is broadening the engagement of local actors in the energy market to promote more and better livelihood opportunities.
“Barbadians have a stake in the ownership of their own assets – sun, wind and wave energy,” said Senator Lisa Cummins, Minister of Energy and Business of Barbados, speaking about the project. “Here in the Ministry, it is a priority for us to make sure we facilitate that.”
The initiative was rolled out through a series of capacity-building workshops and the innovative ‘Share Fair’, designed to equip local suppliers with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the international energy arena.
The active participation of experts from the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) provided practical tools and insights, directly contributing to the project’s success by offering proven strategies tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of the Barbadian context.
With over 215 beneficiaries, the outcomes of this South-South cooperation initiative have contributed to bolstering the capacity and competitiveness of local suppliers in Barbados.
A pivotal achievement of the project was the development and implementation of a Supplier Data Management System (SDMS), along with a structured Supplier Development Program, both informed by Nigeria’s pioneering efforts. These systems not only facilitated efficient management of local content development, but also ensured the sustainability and scalability of the project’s impact.
Legislative and regulatory advancements were equally significant, with the enactment of the new Energy Local Content Act and Regulations, alongside a robust policy framework. These legal instruments were inspired by successful practices across the Caribbean and other developing nations. The project also saw the establishment of the Energy Local Content Department and the drafting of a 15-year Financial Technical Assistance Program (FTAP), outlining a strategic roadmap for long-term success.
