21 July 2008

New clean energy helps tourism in Caribbean

The discovery of renewable geo thermal energy in the volcanic mountain range of Nevis is expected to transform the small Caribbean islandÃ¢â¬â¢s tourism industry when supply begins early next year.

The clean energy source will enable the island to further develop its tourism product without damaging the local environment.

Drilling for steam, which will be harnessed to power generators, has already begun in the Spring Hill area of Nevis. The single site is expected to produce enough energy for Nevis and its sister island of St Kitts plus other neighbouring islands.

New head of the Nevis Tourist Board, Garcia Thompson-Hendrickson said the clean fuel would enable the island to develop high quality, low impact tourism.

Thompson-Hendrickson said two of his priorities were to maintain the islandÃ¢â¬â¢s natural resources and develop high quality accommodation, such as the low-rise Mount Nevis Hotel and Beach Club.

The island will be focusing on promoting its natural lush environment and unique heritage over the coming months. A food festival, called the Nevis International Culinary Heritage Exposition, with cookery demonstrations and food prepared by Caribbean and international chefs, will be held from October 17 to 19.

By Linsey McNeill