A Fetus in the Energy Sector

Tamaira Rowe

Published on October 13, 2023

By Adia Page, Montserrat

Here we are, coming to the end of the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency’s data collection internship. When I had my interview, I never imagined how the experience would affect me. I not only learned about a field that is worthwhile for our environment but about my limits and about me.

As with anything new, I grew increasingly nervous as the time drew closer to know if I would get the opportunity to participate in this regional effort. I doubted that I could live up to the task; after all, I’d only just begun my journey into the energy sector. But I landed both the job and the opportunity to learn more about the energy sector in Montserrat.  

Although I had no idea what to expect, I approached the opportunity with optimism and didn’t worry about the limitless number of unknowns. I had all the information I needed when the internship started. Looking back though, I severely underestimated the amount of effort required for what I understood to be data collection, but I was intrigued and comforted by the thought that there would be regular updates throughout the internship. From weekly meetings to regular report updates, I began to see how in-depth and serious the internship was, especially because it involved the progress of the “Emerald Isle of the Caribbean” in reaching its renewable energy goals.

Despite my inexperience, I was excited and felt ready to face whatever arose because I had the support I needed. The first thing I learned was how in-depth the data was.

Yes, the electricity in our homes allows us to enjoy amenities and conveniences such as cooling, cooking, entertainment and means of travel. However, before I started the internship it never crossed my mind how electricity is produced and transmitted, how much of it we need, how to meet that demand and how to optimise both its generation and use.

The information I gathered covered several topics beyond renewable energy sources. I learned about simple statistical data, power plants and emissions, existing energy sources and the causes of pollution and ways to reduce it. I had a lot on my plate, but I remained optimistic and remembered that I was not alone, which encouraged me to carry on and try my best. 

I also learned another unexpected lesson. Having to source information from relevant people taught me a new level of patience and persistence not even my little sisters could have. Nonetheless, as I conclude the eight weeks, I’ve learned how to improve my time management skills. Working with my supervisor has been a great pleasure, and I deeply appreciate her efforts to assist me and ease the workload. I’ve seen only a small piece of the energy sector in our sweet Caribbean, so I’m excited to learn more and, perhaps, become involved in the region’s journey to a greener world.