The Caribbean’s energy sector has long navigated several challenging circumstances including the impacts of multi-hazards and natural disasters, financial constraints, central grid limitations and COVID-19 related effects such as decreased revenue and procurement delays. The discussion of power sector modernisation has been a longstanding one among Caribbean countries. To realize this initiative, developmental and implementation plans must be properly structured and supported on all fronts; operational, technical, financial, and social.
The full scope of the grid ecosystem and the various functions of the grid itself must be considered – from asset owners, manufacturers, utilities, public and private partners, and policy makers. As electric infrastructure ages and its limitations are being exceeded, grid modernisation aims to bring about a smarter and more resilient system. Such modernisation presents multiple benefits to utilities and power generation companies. For example, the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies, equipment, and mechanisms which can communicate and work effectively in unison to deliver electricity more efficiently can significantly reduce frequent and lengthy power outages, natural disaster impacts, and restore service faster when outages occur.
Consumers can better manage their own energy consumption and costs if they have easier access to their data. Utilities also benefit from a modernised grid; including improved security, reduced peak loads, increased capacity for integration of renewables, and lower operational costs. As such, an understanding of how to smoothly restructure and improve the region’s power sector is integral and key for the successful planning and implementation process for modernisation.
Another key component to power sector modernisation is the digitization of procurement, planning and operational processes to facilitate the seamless execution of all procedures and easy integration of new software and equipment as needed. The ultimate goal of such transformation and innovation is to ensure a clean, secure, and affordable power supply to all customers. The Engineering and Procurement Conference and Exhibition will gather engineers and procurement specialists throughout the regional energy sector and beyond to discuss, brainstorm and present ideas, solutions, and best practices on the modernisation of the Caribbean’s power sector. For further information contact our Marketing and Member Services Department at events@carilec.org. This conference is targeted towards engineering personnel, energy solution providers, technical specialists, and purchasing and procurement managers of regional energy and electricity affiliated organisations.