Key Challenges Facing Island Nations - On Energy Security & Economic Development from the Caribbean to the Pacific
Promotor / Advisor
Keyword
Energy security
SIDS
SIDS
Location research
University of Puerto Rico - Bayamon
Date
2025-02-27
License
Attribution 4.0 International
Publisher
Purdue University
Language
en_US
ISSN
ISBN
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Abstract
This panel, organized by Purdue University (through Blue Integrated Partnerships) and hosted at the University of Puerto Rico–Bayamón, examined the interconnected challenges that island nations face at the nexus of energy security and economic development. Chaired by Prof. Luciano Castillo (Purdue University), the discussion brought together perspectives from Aruba, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and The Bahamas, spanning academia, biology and environmental systems, public-sector economic development, and energy leadership. Panelists explored how island geographies intensify exposure to external shocks, fuel price volatility, supply-chain disruptions, extreme weather events and limited technical capacities. The conversation highlighted the structural constraints that limit rapid transition, including grid fragility, financing barriers, regulatory complexity, workforce capacity needs, and the difficulty of scaling technologies in small markets.
Speakers emphasized that resilience must be pursued through integrated strategies that link energy planning with water, food systems, land use, and ecosystem stewardship. Pathways discussed included accelerating renewable integration and storage, modernizing grids, improving efficiency and demand management, strengthening governance and regulatory frameworks, and enabling investment through clearer market signals and bankable project structures. The panel also underscored the economic upside of energy security: reduced import dependence, improved competitiveness, greater attractiveness for investment, and the creation of skilled local jobs. Overall, the discussion positioned islands as both highly vulnerable and uniquely capable testbeds for innovation, demonstrating solutions that can be replicated and scaled in other regions.
Citation
Acevedo, D. (2025, February 27). Panelist, Key challenges facing island nations [Panel discussion]. In L. Castillo (Chair), On energy security & economic development: From the Caribbean to the Pacific. University of Puerto Rico Bayamón, Bayamón, Puerto Rico.
Sponsorship
Journal / Book / Conference
On Energy Security & Economic Development from the Caribbean to the Pacific