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Financial Secretary of Belize, Joseph Waight and Acting President and President Emeritus of the University of Belize Corinth Morther-Lewis

On Monday, February 14, the Government of Belize through the Ministry of Finance signed a Memorandum of Understanding for a clean solar energy project with the University of Belize at the university's Central Campus in Belmopan City. Signatories to the MOU were the Financial Secretary, Mr. Joseph Waight, and Acting President and President Emeritus Dr. Corinth Morter-Lewis. Also present was the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Works, Mr. Cadet Henderson.

The Photovoltaic Project is designed to introduce clean energy to Belize by solar electricity generation using photovoltaic panels which are referred to as the PV system. "UB is poised to become a leader in clean solar energy in the region," remarked Dr. Morter-Lewis. "UB students in particular from the engineering faculty will benefit from being exposed to this cutting-edge technology."

The construction of the photovoltaic panels will commence in August of this year and will be built on 2.04 acres of land at UB's Central Campus. The power generated by the PV system will be sold to Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) and the gross proceeds from such sales will be transferred by way of a grant to UB. Also, GOB will transfer the ownership and management of the PV system after a period of ten years to UB free of cost.

All related costs to the construction and operations will be realized by GOB and the Government of Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). JICA has provided $20 million towards the project. The equipment procured under the project will be maintained by the Ministry of Works and UB with necessary assistance from BEL and other related organizations. It should take one year to complete.

The Guardian

Last edited by Marty; 02/19/11 09:51 AM.