READY TO DRILL (FOR STEAM NOT OIL): DOMINICA

UNCLAS BRIDGETOWN 000347 WHA/ESPC FAITH CORNEILLE AND FRANCES COLON E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: XL ECON ENV EINV ENRG SENV TRGY SUBJECT: READY TO DRILL (FOR STEAM NOT OIL): DOMINICA RESPONSE TO ENERGY AND CLIMATE PARTNERSHIP OF THE AMERICAS (ECPA) -------------- SUMMARY -------------- ¶1. (U) On 14 March 2009, poloff, met with Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Utilities, Energy, and Ports Vincent Philbert to discuss the Summit of the Americas, focusing on the Energy and Climate Partnership of the Americas (EPCA). Philbert advised us that representatives from Dominica would attend the June 15-16 Americas Energy Symposium hosted by Peru. Philbert expressed Dominica,s desire to take geothermal energy from the planning stages to the exploration stages. He hoped that the EPCA could be used to facilitate the transfer of green technologies and best practices from developed countries to Dominica. ¶2. (U) According to Philbert, Dominica is ready to start drilling for steam but needed outside investment and technology to dig down and look at what kind of geothermal capability is actually there. As for other renewables, Philbert mentioned a desire to explore solar and wind energy. He also expressed an interest in technical assistance to create greener public buildings. -------------- COMMENT -------------- ¶3. (U) Poloffs have been in contact with USTDA about the possibility of a reverse trade delegation, with Dominican Government and Business leaders going to the U.S. to meet with geothermal companies. USTDA is currently evaluating a bid relating to renewable energy in Dominica. During our continued meetings with Philbert, poloffs have stressed that the USG is interested in exploring possible ways we can be of assistance. We have conveyed our expectation that, when commercial tenders are put out to bid, American firms will be given positive consideration. Philbert was enthusiastic in his response to USG proposals. HARDT