The Caribbean energy sector is undergoing a profound transformation that places human development at the forefront of its transition strategy. Industry executives revealed during the recent CARILEC conference that the critical challenge isn’t technological adoption but cultivating a skilled, adaptable workforce capable of driving the region’s renewable energy shift.
Cletus Bertin, Executive Director of CARILEC, emphasized that the annual conference establishes the strategic direction for utilities across the region. “This gathering focuses specifically on human resource management, corporate communications, and customer service excellence,” Bertin explained. “We’re guiding practitioners to share experiences, learn from experts, and build collaborative networks that support our collective transformation.”
The regional transition from traditional fossil fuels to high renewable energy penetration represents more than just technical overhaul. According to Bertin, these changes are fundamentally centered on people—requiring new attitudes, skill sets, roles, and communication strategies for both internal and external stakeholders.
Omari Frederick, Corporate Communications Manager at St. Lucia Electricity Services Ltd, highlighted the conference’s unique value in facilitating knowledge exchange. “Beyond the learning and engagement opportunities, the utility updates session allows every organization to present their achievements and challenges from human resource, communications, and customer service perspectives,” Frederick noted.
Frederick further articulated the broader societal responsibility of energy providers: “Utility companies aren’t just responsible for providing power—each of us contributes to economic and social progress in our countries. Without reliable energy, development stagnates. This enormous responsibility demands that we unify, exchange ideas, and implement best practices to strengthen our collective impact.”
Industry leaders unanimously agree that a people-first strategy will be the driving force behind the Caribbean’s successful energy transition, making workforce development and collaborative approaches the new blueprint for regional power sector transformation.