Government has promised to consult the public on a national energy policy to make the Island more sustainable.

The Green Paper could result in more offshore wind generation and domestic micro-renewable sources, such as wind turbines, Photovoltaic (PV) and solar panels, all aimed at reducing the Island's reliance on oil.

The initiative was announced in the Throne Speech on Friday.

Governor Sir Richard Gozney said: "In keeping with this Government's commitment to sustainable development, a Ministerial responsibility for energy has been created.

"Accordingly, work on a national energy policy will commence and a Green Paper on energy will be produced to initiate an important public discussion on this issue."

Among the other environmental policies unveiled were the introduction of more fruit varieties to "reinvigorate Bermuda's declining citrus and fruit culture". Government could not expand on the "new varieties" on Friday, but said "education classes will be offered in order to promote public participation in this initiative".

Ministers are also to encourage the fishing industry and agriculture.

The Throne Speech states: "In support of Bermuda's tradition of fishing and farming, the commercial fishing and farming communities will benefit from a renewed focus by the Government to help keep these industries viable and sustainable."

The Throne Speech also repeated two promises from its precursor on November 2, 2007 ¿ amendments to the Water Resources Act 1975 to prevent polluting, plus a Bottle Bill to discourage littering.

Sir Richard said: "The Government has developed policies that recognise the connection between a healthy community and a healthy environment.

"The Government will introduce a raft of initiatives dedicated to improving the condition of the environment while simultaneously improving the quality of life of Bermudians and residents, thereby ensuring we live within Bermuda's limits.

"To improve the quality of Bermuda's water supply, Government will amend the Water Resources Act 1975 to provide for greater control over the discharge of substances into Bermuda's water resources by strengthening and clarifying the provisions that relate to the prevention and remediation of pollution.

"A bottle deposit system will be developed to encourage even greater take-up of recycling and to help keep Bermuda beautiful."

Government is to create roadside drop-off points where people will receive a deposit refund for every bottle they deliver.

Richard Lathan, executive director of Keep Bermuda Beautiful, said last night: "We are standing by to be ready to assist in any way we can. We are supportive of anything which will help to keep Bermuda beautiful, particularly in public education and awareness. A Bottle Bill will be the icing on the cake in encouraging people to change their behaviour."

There was however, no mention of expected Planning reforms in yesterday's speech. In a pre-election article in December, then-Environment Minister Neletha Butterfield said: "The New Bermuda Plan will be launched in 2008 and there will also be a review of the Development and Planning Act."