The Editor, Sir:

Today I was made aware of the history behind the boom of solar water heaters in Barbados. The government gave large incentives through reductions in income taxes and it worked. One only needs to drive for five minutes in Barbados to see that it is a phenomenon. It is also interesting that it would be almost impossible to find companies that distribute or sell gas or electric heaters.

What's the gov't doing

So I ask the question: What is the Government of Jamaica doing to create a similar 'culture'? We have all admitted that we need to try and diversify our energy and invest in renewable energy. I applaud the National Housing Trust for the loans, but I do believe that if we are serious about cutting our ties with coal and gas, we have to do more than give low interest rate loans for water heaters.

The solution to some of our problems will not come overnight and the government needs to take the lead in changing this mindset. And, I do believe that investing more in solar energy will carry us a long way for a long time to come.

I am, etc.,

LE-ANNE ROPER

laroper18@yahoo.com

Via Go-Jamaica