BAEP President Erwin Edwards (left)with Michelle Hustler-Small, project manager, Trade in Services, with the Barbados Coalition of Service Industries. (GP)

LOCAL BUSINESSES can save up to 35 per cent on their energy costs through energy audits, says the president of the island's newest professional association, the Barbados Association of Energy Professionals (BAEP).

President Erwin Edwards believes that businesses can save ten to 35 per cent on their energy costs by having an audit and implementing the recommendations.

"If businesses are going to survive in this economic climate with escalating energy costs, they need to pay more attention to their energy spend, which is a key cost in running businesses," he said.

He was speaking at the BAEP launch last week at the Barbados Coalition of Service Industries' (BCSI) offices at Pine Plantation Road, St Michael.

"Audits will accurately pinpoint how your energy dollars are being distributed and as a result businesses and householders can move to adequately make changes that target those specific areas of need," Edwards said.

BCSI project manager, Trade in Services, Michelle Hustler-Small pledged BCSI's commitment and support to the association, which is its newest corporate member.

"The BAEP will be invaluable in helping to reduce energy costs. Given international concerns over the escalating cost of living, the organisation's members have great export potential," she added.

The BAEP plans to help Barbados become one of the most energyefficient countries in the Western Hemisphere and a regional leader in the use of alternative energy sources.

Its membership will comprise individuals and corporations whose primary focus is to practice and develop energy auditing and other energy-related opportunities in Barbados. (PR)