The Fair Trading Commission (FTC) of Barbados has opted to conduct hearings regarding Renewstable Barbados’ (RSB) application for a renewable energy tariff and confidentiality requests exclusively through written submissions, effectively barring public access to the proceedings. This decision, revealed by Barbados TODAY, was formalized in two procedural orders issued by the FTC. These orders outline the process for document submissions, requests for additional information, and set strict deadlines for all parties involved. RSB, a joint venture between Hydrogène de France (HDF Energy) and Rubis Caribbean Holdings Inc., seeks approval for its proposed tariff rate to supply clean energy to the Barbados Light and Power Company (BLPC). The company has also requested that certain proprietary and commercially sensitive data within its application remain confidential. The $350 million hybrid renewable energy power plant, slated for construction at Harrow Plantation in St Philip by March 2025, will integrate advanced technologies, including hydrogen power, to deliver 24-hour renewable energy. The plant’s solar photovoltaic component, with a capacity of 50MW, will become Barbados’ largest solar installation, significantly surpassing BLPC’s existing 10MW Trent’s facility. A four-member commission panel, chaired by Senior Counsel Tammy Bryan, has been appointed to oversee the case. Opposing parties were given until 4 p.m. on Friday to submit objections to RSB’s confidentiality request, with RSB required to respond by the following Friday. The FTC emphasized that further procedural directions may be issued as needed. Strategic Adviser Aidan Rogers explained that the procedural orders establish guidelines for the consultation process and address confidentiality concerns. He noted that the FTC will decide on RSB’s confidentiality request and tariff application in due course. Veteran utility intervenor Ricky Went submitted his response to the confidentiality request just before the deadline.
Public excluded from FTC hearings on energy tariff, confidentiality requests
