Saint Lucia demonstrates a structured, data-driven approach to transition planning. Through its National Energy Policy, National Energy Transition Strategy, and Integrated Resource Plan, the country has established a coherent framework for investment. Its target of achieving 50% renewable electricity generation by 2030, up from approximately 5% in 2023, is supported by scenario modelling that balances cost, reliability, and emissions reduction.
Saint Kitts and Nevis highlights how ambition and innovation can compensate for scale constraints. Its target of 100% renewable electricity by 2028 is supported by utility-scale solar and battery storage investments expected to significantly reduce diesel dependence. Complementary geothermal development, supported by the Caribbean Development Bank, demonstrates the role of blended finance in de-risking projects.
Belize reflects a pragmatic, institution-focused approach. Emphasis on data systems, procurement reform, and workforce development has strengthened its ability to scale renewable investment. Its efforts to standardise Requests for Proposals and Power Purchase Agreements, alongside participation in regional data platforms, underscore the importance of transparency and consistency in reducing transaction costs.
Trinidad and Tobago presents a more complex transition pathway. As a hydrocarbon-based economy, it must balance decarbonisation with economic dependence on fossil fuels. However, its industrial base and technical capacity position it to support emerging clean energy sectors. Ongoing regulatory reforms and a “just transition” framework aimed at workforce alignment provide a model for managing socio-economic impacts.
Collectively, these cases demonstrate that while national contexts differ, successful transitions are consistently underpinned by enabling policy environments, institutional capacity, and strategic coordination.
Delivering on GST and C-SERMS objectives will require a rapid scaling of implementation. Achieving the region’s 2030 targets will necessitate the addition of approximately 1,300 –2,000 MW of renewable capacity, implying significant annual growth rates in the latter part of the decade. While technically feasible, this transition demands a coordinated regional approach, as such, three immediate priorities emerge. First, institutionalising data transparency through platforms such as CARICOM is essential to support planning, monitoring, and investment. Second, C-SERMS must be updated and operationalised to strengthen its role in harmonising regulatory frameworks, coordinating capacity-building, and facilitating joint procurement. Third, expanding access to blended finance mechanisms will be critical to improving project viability and mobilising the estimated US$5 –7 billion required for the region’s transition.
Integrating GST targets within NDCs provides a practical mechanism to advance these priorities. Beyond improving coherence and accountability, this approach enables the development of comprehensive investment strategies aligned with international climate finance. Well-structured, scalable project pipelines will be essential to attracting both public and private capital.
The Caribbean’s energy transition is both a necessity and an opportunity. By addressing structural barriers and leveraging regional cooperation, the region can build energy systems that are more resilient, sustainable, and economically competitive. The pathway to 2030 will require urgency, coordination, and sustained political commitment. However, with the right alignment of policy, finance, and institutional capacity, the Caribbean is well-positioned not only to meet its targets, but to demonstrate how small island developing states can lead in the global energy transition.