The Department of Energy has launched a new public survey to collect information about the public interest in solar energy.

Walter Roban, the Minister of Home Affairs, encouraged the public to complete the online survey to help the Government design its approach to solar power.

Mr Roban said: “This data is being gathered in order to better inform the Department on how to best target upcoming measures to increase access to solar technologies and future energy conservation initiatives.

“Among these initiatives will be an energy fund that aims to increase the public’s access to energy independence through solar energy.

“However, in order to ensure that these initiatives meet the public’s needs, we first need your help in understanding where the barriers are that are preventing access.”

The online survey can be filled in by anyone over the age of 18, but only one response is needed per household.

Mr Roban added: “We seek to receive all responses by August 6 so that plans can be finalised for our new initiatives.

“Currently, between businesses and homeowners Bermuda has around 6.5MW of installed distributed solar PV capacity.”

He said: “These are clean, green electrons that we all benefit from as solar energy helps to lower our fuel costs as long as Bermuda maintains any reliance on imported fossil fuels.”