“The global energy sector is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in modern history. Nations around the world are being called upon to balance their ambitions for energy development, social empowerment, economic growth, environmental sustainability and climate justice, within a rapidly evolving landscape.
Growing geopolitical instability, supply-chain disruptions, increasing frequency of severe weather events and volatility within international energy markets have further underscored the importance of energy security, resilience and diversification for countries such as ours.
Barbados is responding to these challenges with pragmatism and a deep sense of purpose. As a Small Island Developing State at the forefront of the global climate fight, we established a National Energy Policy that recognises the urgency of achieving a Just Transition and charts a clear pathway to becoming a 100% renewable energy and net-zero economy by 2035.
This increasingly complex landscape reinforces Barbados’ decision to pursue a balanced and future-focused energy agenda through the development of a Multi-Energy Strategy. This strategy accelerates renewable energy deployment and mandates firm action towards decarbonisation, while also allowing the responsible exploration, production and development of ‘advantaged hydrocarbons’ within our offshore acreage.
Within the past four (4) years, Barbados refocused its Offshore Petroleum Programme to ensure that it aligned with the country’s climate advocacy goals and energy development ambitions.
Therefore, in my capacity as the Designated Authority, I am pleased to announce the launch of the Barbados 2026 Offshore Direct Negotiations, through which the country will seek to license up to nineteen (19) available blocks across highly prospective areas of our shelf and deepwater acreage.
The pre-qualification process will commence on June 1, 2026 and will be governed by the Offshore Petroleum Act Cap. 282A, as amended.
Barbados welcomes engagement with experienced and responsible energy companies that are committed to technical excellence, environmental stewardship and regulatory transparency.
In contemplating the discovery of commercial quantities of hydrocarbons, Barbados has designated natural gas as a key bridging fuel. We equally recognise, however, that the reduction of methane emissions is regarded as the single most effective strategy to reduce global warming in the near term and help to keep the goal of limiting warming to 1.5 ºC within reasonable reach.
Our policy will therefore align offshore exploration and production activities with world-class methane management practices. To this end, we will be seeking to partner with globally recognised entities who have established expertise and proven capabilities in incorporating methane management and reduction into their exploration and production processes. Whilst we do that, we will also, as a parallel priority of the government, continue to collaborate with other allies to draft a global methane agreement that moves methane reduction commitments to firm action.
The Government and people of Barbados look forward to partnering with the energy pioneers of the world and forging enduring partnerships founded on mutual respect, shared values and a clear purpose.”
