An official website was launched (www.energy.gov.ky) to host and make easily accessible, the National Energy Policy, regulations, implementation plan and other pertinent key documents, news and information. Social media channels were created, (facebook.com/energycayman and Instagram.com/energycayman) to facilitate multi-stakeholder information-sharing and engagement with the implementation activities of the NEP.
A public education campaign was launched in July 2020 under the brand name, Energy Cayman. Communications Campaign – Energy Cayman Through the launch of the Energy Cayman campaign, the National Energy Policy aimed to address the first goal on their action plan (Knowledge and Education). The primary goal of the campaign was to educate the public by promoting and building awareness of energy efficiency and conservation methods to both residents and businesses in the Cayman Islands.
The public education campaign aimed to:
• Create an appreciation for the NEP
• Ensure that consumers become more aware of their energy consumption habits;
• Change consumers’ behaviour towards energy saving and sustainable energy use;
• Improve knowledge of energy conservation and energy efficiency;
• Improve understanding of renewable energy and its technologies, and its role in climate change.
The public education campaign had two phases. Phase 1: In (July to September 2020): Initial public awareness campaign & strategy development. This aim of the initial campaign was to inform the Cayman Islands’ community that the Government has invested in energy and sustainability as a priority and that building a sustainable future is a key driver for the Government. Phase 2: In (September 2020 to June 2021): Execution of the public engagement marketing and communications strategy.
① A key highlight of the public education campaign was the Home Energy Efficiency Competition launched by the Ministry of CPI in partnership with the CUC in October 2020. An approximate total of CI$45,000 monetary and in-kind sponsorship, was received from companies including CEL Cooling, Cooling Pros, Foam Pros, DART, Saxon, Hurleys Media and CNB. Over 800 competition entries were received, which generated significant public awareness of the National Energy Policy. The competition was open to all homeowners in Grand Cayman. Eight (8) homes were chosen for Home Energy Audits worth up to CI$1,900 each. The audits analysed the homes and determined where and how energy was being lost, what systems were operating inefficiently and provided recommendations to substantially reduce utility bill costs. One of the homes was then chosen to receive a full home ‘energy makeover’ worth up to CI$35,000. based upon the results of the audit. The home received spray foam insulation, a new air conditioning system, smart thermostat and energy monitor with all works completed by September 27 2021. Energy efficient appliances will also be installed once data has been collected on the existing retrofit. The makeover is aimed to significantly reduce utility bill costs and increase the value of the home, which will subsequently reduce stress on Cayman’s electricity grid.
② During January 2021, a series of ‘do-it-yourself’ (DIY) energy audits were published to inform the Cayman community on ways to reduce its energy bill costs and to save energy. An energy audit is an assessment of a house, business or daily routine that shows energy usage, and reveals where improvements in energy efficiency can be made. Three downloadable DIY audits were created. One for homes, one for businesses and the third for children. A child friendly version was prioritised to instil energy-saving behaviours and attitudes at an early age of the future generation.
③ Additional public education activities delivered: • Created and disseminated an Energy Labelling Guide • Provided an information booth at the Builders Expo • Hosted several ‘Lunch and Learn’ events on Energy Efficiency for businesses in partnership with CUC. • Hosted a ‘Lunch and Learn’ event on Climate Change and the NEP in partnership with CaymanEco. • Presented to the Bankers Association (in collaboration with CUC) on affordable loans for energy efficient equipment. • Launched public service announcement radio ads promoting Energy Efficiency.
Energy labeling guide created and available online.
The Department of Planning hosted a Training session for Electricians/Solar panel installers on NEC 2014 – regarding the latest electrical requirements for photovoltaic
The Public Works Department has started a facility audit on all government buildings to assess energy conservation needs
The National Housing Development Trust is incorporating sustainable energy materials into their new homes
The National Development Framework has been drafted and submitted to the Ministry of CPI for review. The framework will enable mixed use development and efficient building design requirements
Discussions have started regarding improvements to public transportation
