Govt signals support for 2nd edition of Int’l Energy Conference
Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat has fully endorsed the second edition of the International Energy Conference and Expo Guyana 2023 (IECEG), which is scheduled to take place from February 14-17, 2023.
President Dr Irfaan Ali, President Chandrikapersad Santokhi and Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr Keith Rowley are listed as the keynote speakers at the conference.
Minister Bharrat recently met with the CEO of the International Energy Conference and Expo, Kurt Baboolall, and he said, “The Government of Guyana is fully in support of the International Energy Conference and Expo Guyana, and we expect this year to be even bigger than 2022, and as we continue to grow our oil and gas sector, we look forward to attract more investors to Guyana. Our Government has been putting a lot of emphasis on the non-oil economy, as well, and this conference will highlight opportunities in those sectors. It is not just an oil and gas conference; it is an energy conference that focuses on renewables, sustainability and investment opportunities across all sectors.”
Further, the Minister added, “Guyana is one of the most exciting destinations in the world right now, it is the opportune time to not only visit Guyana but to explore our immense investment opportunities. There are so many opportunities now as we develop all the sectors. Now is the right time for anyone to invest in Guyana; Our Government is working assiduously to address the cost of energy production in Guyana, which will allow an even more attractive investment destination.”
Meanwhile, Baboolall, during the meeting, related that the secretariat is proud to have the Natural Resources Ministry and, by extension the Government of Guyana’s ongoing support.
“Their indication of support for the conference and expo demonstrates the Government’s confidence in our secretariat and our ability to provide a reputable avenue for energy discussions. The conference and expo offers a forum for the Government to drive the energy conversation by addressing the demands of the industry and its stakeholders.”
In line with the goals and objectives of the Local Content Policy, it is anticipated that the conference and expo will promote Guyana as an oil and gas investment destination, establish and strengthen productive industry relationships, and offer a platform for local businesses to access collateral and joint ventures. In the short to medium term, the conference plans to promote its portfolio of spin-off oil and gas assets in addition to national infrastructure projects.
The conference and expo has been able to attract over 30 sponsors and 150 exhibitors. This year, the IECEG Secretariat confirmed that the conference will have more delegates, sponsors, and exhibitors than last year.
This year, the conference and expo is being hosted under the theme “Harnessing Energy for Development” and is expected to assemble Heads of State and Government officials, policymakers, academics, industry professionals, and global energy thought leaders.