On January 11th, 2025, the European Union-funded GCCA+ Project, implemented by UNDP in partnership with the Ministry of Planning and Development (MPD), proudly received the “Best Decarbonization Project 2025” Award from the Trinidad and Tobago Energy Chamber. This recognition marks a milestone in Trinidad and Tobago’s journey toward a sustainable, low-carbon future, and it’s a powerful testament to what’s possible when communities, government, and international partners work hand in hand.

For a country whose economy has long been powered by oil and gas, this award signals something more profound than just a project milestone. It’s a reflection of a growing national commitment to energy transition, climate action, and a greener, more resilient future.
 

A Turning Point in an Oil and Gas Economy

Trinidad and Tobago has been a proud energy leader in the Caribbean for decades. But with that leadership comes responsibility, and the reality that our dependence on fossil fuels makes us one of the highest per capita carbon emitters in the region. The climate crisis makes no exceptions. Rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and more intense weather patterns put our communities at risk. We need solutions that protect our people and sustain our economy.

The GCCA+ Project is a bold step in that direction. Thanks to funding from the European Union, this project has introduced solar power as a viable, scalable energy solution in Trinidad and Tobago. Whether it’s the Piarco International Airport Solar Park, generating clean energy and cutting emissions by hundreds of tonnes each year, or the 12 rooftop solar installations across the country, the project is showing that renewable energy isn’t just a concept—it’s a reality.

More Than Just Technology; A Movement for change

This isn’t just about installing solar panels. The GCCA+ Project is transforming the way people think about energy. Through awareness campaigns, training programs, and community outreach, the project has sparked vital conversations about energy efficiency, climate resilience, and sustainable living.

Education is central to change. By partnering with civil society organizations, local communities, and youth groups, the project is encouraging behavioral shifts that make energy conservation and sustainability part of everyday life.

Policy and Progress

One of the standout features of this initiative has been its impact on national policy. With technical support provided by UNDP through the GCCA+ Project, the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries (MEEI) now has a draft renewable energy policy and a draft Feed-in Tariff policy, both of which are accompanied by clear implementation plans. These policy tools are helping to pave the way for wider adoption of renewable energy and helping Trinidad and Tobago work towards its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) commitments under the Paris Agreement, a 15% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 and 30% renewables in the power generation mix.

Powered by Partnership: The Role of the EU

None of this would have been possible without the visionary support of the European Union. As the major funder of the GCCA+ Project, the EU has played a pivotal role in bringing these ambitions to life. This award recognizes not only the project’s success but the EU’s broader commitment to climate action, sustainable development, and supporting Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like Trinidad and Tobago on their energy transition journeys.

The GCCA+ Project isn’t an isolated initiative; it’s deeply connected to Trinidad and Tobago’s national priorities and the government’s renewed focus on energy transition. It also aligns with UNDP’s Climate Promise, our flagship global initiative supporting countries to enhance their climate commitments and move towards a net-zero future.

But at its core, the project’s success is thanks to the leadership of the Ministry of Planning and Development, who have championed the cause, brought key stakeholders to the table, and ensured that climate and energy action remain at the heart of Trinidad and Tobago’s development agenda. The Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries and the many other partners involved deserve equal applause for their collaboration and dedication.

Looking Ahead

Winning the Best Decarbonization Project 2025 award is not just recognition of a job well done; it’s a call to action. Trinidad and Tobago’s energy transition is gathering momentum, and projects like GCCA+ show that we are not only capable but determined to meet the challenges of climate change head-on.

Together with the support of the EU, our government partners, and our communities, UNDP remains committed to driving forward this transformation; one project, one policy, and one partnership at a time.