Renewable energy needs guarantees

[NewsWhore]

Rodrigo Varillas, an expert from the Santo Domingo Technological Institute (INTEC) says that investors in the renewable energy sector need guarantees that there won't be theft in the renewable energy sector. Energy theft, Hoy writes, currently totals US$600 million annually, equivalent to 1.7% of the GDP. Varillas, who is taking part in the DR's first renewable energy exhibition being held at Santo Domingo's Renaissance Jaragua Hotel, was a speaker during the "Commercial Challenges for the Development of Wind Projects in the DR," seminar. He listed increased bill payments, defined policies on protected areas and tourist points as important issues to consider. Varillas also said that not penalizing projects in more remote areas, incentives and having realistic expectations would lead to continued support for such developments. Varilla added that the renewable energy sector wouldn't allow 32% of the energy produced to be stolen, as is currently the case. Highlighting the positive aspects of renewable energy, Varillas said that the DR has the potential for producing 10,000 MW of energy by placing windmills in strategic spots around the country. As for a wind park, Varillas explained that wind energy wouldn't reduce electricity prices in the short term, or eliminate energy theft and rolling blackouts, but he said that this type of energy could lead to more stable electricity prices and could free the country from some of its dependence on fuel imports.

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