By Greentech Lead America: More than 200 policy
makers, industry executives and investors participated in the recently concluded
second annual Renewable Energy Finance Forum (REFF). The attendees discussed
the evolution of the renewable energy markets in Latin America and the
Caribbean.
The event is hosted by the Latin American Council on
Renewable Energy (LAC-CORE), the American Council On Renewable Energy (ACORE),
and Euromoney Energy Events.
The event featured speakers from leading renewable energy
companies, investment institutions and government organizations focused on
renewable energy investments and transactions, infrastructure and country
policies, and the future growth potential for the region.
Industry leaders forecast strong economic growth rates
and high electricity costs will spur renewable
energy development particularly with the abundant natural resources in
Latin America and the Caribbean’s.
REFF-LAC sessions highlighted the need of education
throughout the region: Both financiers and the general public need more
awareness and understanding to the benefits of renewable energy
technologies. Sustainable policies need to be implemented in order
to create predictability for both developers and investors.
 “The delegates at REFF-LAC have built the business
case for investment in renewable energy development. REFF-LAC is connecting
people from Latin America and around the globe to learn about opportunities and
drive renewable energy growth in the region,” said Dennis McGinn, ACORE president.
Delegates from more than 15 countries participated
including Brazil, Panama, Mexico, Colombia, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Peru,
Nicaragua, Chile, Argentina, and a host of the Caribbean nations, in addition
to the U.S. and Europe.
“Renewable energy is one of the fastest growing
industries in Latin America and the Caribbean. Events like REFF-LAC are
excellent venues for networking and deal-generation, and create a better
understanding of financing opportunities in the region,” said Carlos St. James,
LAC-CORE president. Â
editor@greentechlead.com