Barbados’ Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Kerrie Symmonds, has emphasized the urgent need for the nation to expedite its transition away from fossil fuels, citing escalating geopolitical tensions in the southern Caribbean as a critical driver. Speaking during a parliamentary debate on the Barbados National Energy Company (Transfer and Vesting of Assets) Bill, Symmonds highlighted the potential catastrophic consequences of conflicts in the region, particularly between Venezuela and the United States. He warned that any military escalation could disrupt energy supply routes and destabilize the Petrocaribe agreement, which has historically provided Caribbean nations with oil on favorable terms. Symmonds stressed that Barbados must take control of its energy future to mitigate the risks posed by volatile global oil prices and geopolitical instability. He referenced recent Central Bank data, noting that fuel import costs had fluctuated dramatically, from $538.5 million in the first half of 2024 to $262.5 million in the same period of 2025. Such unpredictability, he argued, underscores the necessity of reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The minister outlined the government’s broader strategy to consolidate national energy assets, streamline investments, and accelerate the adoption of renewable technologies. This includes transitioning the island’s 110,000 privately owned vehicles and public transport systems to electric and hybrid models. Symmonds highlighted progress in the public transport sector, with 89 electric buses now operational and 35 more on the way. He also emphasized the need for government support to help private operators transition to greener alternatives, including through concessionary financing. Symmonds concluded by asserting that Barbados must emancipate itself from the vulnerabilities of the international petroleum market to ensure a sustainable and secure energy future.