Collaborative Models for Energy
Transition Planning and Innovation
October 23rd, 2025,
Santo Domingo
8:30 AM – 1:00 PM (EST)
OVERVIEW
Join us for an exclusive, hands-on workshop designed to turn conference insights into real-world action. Held immediately after the CAREC Conference & Exhibition, this half-day session offers a more focused and interactive learning experience. Participants will engage directly with leading experts to explore practical strategies, collaborative models, and innovative approaches for accelerating the Caribbean energy transition. It’s a unique opportunity to move from inspiration to implementation in a dynamic, solutions-driven setting.
KEY QUESTIONS TO EXPLORE TOGETHER:
The sessions are designed around real-world challenges raised by CARILEC members:
- What does effective collaborative energy planning look like in small island systems?
- How can we align regulatory frameworks with the pace of technological change?
- What are the best ways to scale procurement models in small markets competing globally?
- How can CARILEC, its members, and partners help de-risk renewable energy investments?
- How can planning tools and vendor support optimize generation expansion?
- What are the risks of a utility death spiral, and how can we prevent it?
- What data, roles, and coordination are needed for a resilient, low-carbon transition at the utility, country, and regional levels?
WHAT YOU WILL WALK AWAY WITH?
- Peer-tested insights on practical tools and models (e.g., IRPs, procurement, planning)
- A preview of new hybrid energy system tools and modeling practices
- Shared strategies to avoid the utility death spiral and boost investor confidence
- Access to the CAREC Knowledge Portal, workshop recordings, and onboarding into the pilot platform
- Draft Calls to Action and future program ideas shaped by member feedback
- Clear documentation of working group goals and shared content for follow-up
Session 1. A Caribbean Aggregation Procurement Program for Renewable Energy and Battery Energy Storage Systems
RELP is an impact-driven and independent non-profit organization focused on accelerating the deployment of renewable generation, grid infrastructure and Battery Energy Storage Systems in Emerging Markets. In this interactive session, the RELP team will share insights into the development of their Caribbean Aggregation Procurement Program for RE and BESS and lessons learned from engaging various regional jurisdictions.
Session 2. Utility Energy Planning for Innovation and Resilience
The Bermuda Electric Light Company Lessons on utilities creating an enabling environment for collaboration addressing utility death spiral, inspiring innovation and a robust Integrated Resource and Resiliency Planning Process.
Session 3. Hybridization of Island Utilities in Action: Perspectives on Modeling and Implementation.
Wärtsilä will provide attendees with perspectives on hybrid microgrid modelling and implementation, focusing on the role of Energy Management Systems in the integration of storage, engines and renewables. The team will share insights on Plexos and dynamic power system models, the inputs needed, and outputs expected. Wärtsilä will share their observed best practices to create sound project implementation and provide live demos of hybrid systems.
Session 4. CAREC Knowledge Portal and Call to Action
The closing session will be conducted by the CAREC Team moderator. The audience can gain preview of the new CAREC knowledge platform and connect with fellow technical professionals. Attendees will learn some of the initiatives for the Community of Practice and gain insights from the JPS Center of Excellence Grid Operations Training Centre. The Team will work with you to shape future training activities, workshops, and working groups.