ST JAMES, Jamaica (JIS) — Minister of Science, Energy and Technology, Dr Andrew Wheatley, says the Government is firmly committed to the development of the country energy sector.

Addressing GB Energy – Texaco’s 2018 retailers’ conference at the Royalton Blue Waters Resort in Trelawny on Friday, he said continuous efforts will be made to ensure policy development and the maintenance of harmonious relationships towards the growth and sustainability of the sector.

He said the objective is to ensure energy security for producers and consumers, and facilitate new and appropriate technologies that will emerge over the long-term.

“Our vision is for an energy sector that provides affordable energy supplies to consumers and contributes to the international competitiveness of the productive sectors of our economy,” he outlined.

Dr Wheatley stressed the importance of the private sector working with the Government to develop the sector and helping to create opportunities for citizens.

“We want to see an energy sector that is driven by private sector investment. That is what this Government is about; empowering the private sector to drive growth and development,” he noted.

Dr Wheatley said that the local sector has been performing well, evidenced by significant investments in natural gas.

He noted that the ministry is working to finalise its Integrated Resource Plan which, for the first time in Jamaica’s history, will allow the electricity sector to be developed in a programmed manner.

He said that the country’s oil and gas explorations, if successful, would be a major boost for the economy.

“If we should reach that stage where we are able to provide oil for our own use and export the excess, then I am sure that would contribute to the development of our economy, but we cannot hinge our economic growth and development on that alone,” he pointed out.

Dr Wheatley, in the meanwhile, lauded GB Energy – Texaco for the partnership over the years with Petrojam, the country’s sole refinery, and for its contribution to the economy.

“I believe GB is Petrojam’s largest customer and for that, we are very grateful. It speaks to not only the quality of service that Petrojam provides but more importantly, the commitment of the GB group and by extension, the retailers to Jamaica,” he added.