Automated light system coming

The TT Electricity Commission (TTEC) is looking at developing an automated light system which will remotely shut down lights at recreation grounds in the country. TTEC general manager Kelvin Ramsook made the disclosure to members of the Public Administration and Appropriations Committee (PAAC), during a public hearing at Tower D of the Port-of-Spain International Waterfront Centre on Wednesday.

Ramsook said this will allow energy to be saved at grounds which are not being used by members of the public.

He also said TTEC is doing a blitz initiative to repair street lights which are non-functional and the initiative has been successful to date.

Solid Waste Management Company Limited CEO Ronald Roach said efforts are ongoing with respect to recycling garbage in Tobago.

In response to a question from Tobago East MP Ayanna Webster-Roy, Roach said waste cannot be recycled on a large scale on the island at this time. Roach added that major waste recycling only takes place in Trinidad.

Public Utilities Ministry customer service representative Mauricia Pegus told Independent Senator Jennifer Raffoul there is an initiative which allows certain people who are not connected to TTEC’s electricity grid to acquire solar panels.

Ministry deputy permanent secretary Gary Joseph said the ministry is looking at an initiative which could see government buildings relying on solar power for their electrical needs. Joseph said the utilities sector has experienced significant transition in recent times.

He said this included Ancil Antoine, Fitzgerald Hinds and Robert Le Hunte serving as line minister.

Joseph also noted the ministry’s headquarters relocating within St Clair, from Elizabeth Street to One Alexandra Place.

He said the monthly rent at One Alexandra Place was approximately $675,000. Joseph was unable to indicate what was the monthly rent the ministry paid at its former location.