By Zoila Palma: Belize has handed over the presidency of the Latin American and Caribbean Energy Organization’s (OLACDE) Meeting of Energy Ministers to Bolivia for the 2026–2027 term, while advancing discussions with regional and international partners on strengthening the country’s energy security.
The transition took place during the 11th Energy Week and the 56th Meeting of Energy Ministers, held in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, from October 6 to 10, 2026. Dr. Leroy Almendarez, Chief Executive Officer, represented Energy Minister Michel Chebat, accompanied by Acting Director of Energy Deon Kelly.
During the meetings, Almendarez called for stronger regional cooperation in energy planning, renewable energy development, battery storage and electricity interconnection where feasible.
He also emphasized the need for concessional financing, technical assistance and project-preparation support to help smaller economies turn energy priorities into projects ready for investment. “Ultimately, the success of the energy transition will be judged by what it delivers for ordinary citizens,” Almendarez stated.
The Belize delegation also held discussions with the Inter-American Development Bank and the World Bank to explore additional support for the country’s energy sector. Talks with the IDB focused on opportunities beyond the existing rural electrification project, while discussions with the World Bank included ongoing initiatives such as the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project. Battery storage can strengthen electricity-system resilience and support greater use of renewable energy by storing electricity for use when needed.
Meanwhile, meetings with Mexico’s Vice Minister of Energy, Dr. Jorge Marcial Islas Samperio, addressed Belize’s electricity supply challenges and the importance of maintaining reliable electricity imports from Mexico.
With domestic generation capacity insufficient to meet national demand, recent supply constraints have required load shedding or diesel-generated power to bridge shortages.
The delegation also met with Dr. Mohammad Rafik, Executive Director of the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, to discuss further collaboration and access to regional expertise in sustainable energy.
As Belize concluded its OLACDE presidency, Almendarez reaffirmed the country’s commitment to regional energy cooperation and thanked the Dominican Republic, the OLACDE Secretariat, member countries and development partners for their support.
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