IMF Working Papers

Caribbean Energy : Macro-Related Challenges

Author/Editor:

Arnold McIntyre ; Ahmed El-Ashram ; Marcio Ronci ; Julien Reynaud ; Natasha X Che ; Ke Wang ; Sebastian Acevedo Mejia ; Mark Scott Lutz

Publication Date:

March 8, 2016

Electronic Access:

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Summary:

High energy costs contribute to dampening Caribbean competitiveness and potential growth. This paper overviews power sector challenges and takes stock of national and regional strategies to address them. It presents recommendations to move the energy agenda forward based on analyses of macro-aspects of energy reform. These include: i) quantitative assessment of the impact of energy costs on growth and competitiveness; ii) evaluation of gains from implementing announced renewable energy and energy efficiency targets; and iii) analysis of the impact of energy investments on debt sustainability. The paper argues for a bigger role for the private sector in energy reform and discusses prerequisites for good public-private partnerships.

Series:

Working Paper No. 16/53

Subject:

Antigua and Barbuda Bahamas, The Barbados Caribbean Debt sustainability Dominica Dominican Republic Economic growth Grenada Haiti Infrastructure Jamaica Public investment Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Trinidad and Tobago Western Hemisphere