The key functions of the Ministry are to:
- Provide the policy framework and strategic direction for the operations of Divisions, Agencies and Departments.
- Collaborate on the promulgation and amendment of legislation and regulations which guide the operations of its Agencies and Departments.
- Set priorities and allocate financial and other resources, as appropriate.
Based on the subject areas assigned, the mandate of the Ministry is to:
- Promote energy conservation and efficiency
- Promote renewable energy sources and industrial (petroleum) safety
- Refine products from crude oil and supply imported finished products for the local and export markets
- Provide inspection service for electrical installations island-wide to enable (electrical) safety
- Expand electricity service to rural areas and regularize urban electrification
Energy Division
The Energy Division of the Ministry oversees the functioning of the energy sector. It monitors energy supplies and the identification alternative energy sources, as well as energy conservation. The Division works with:
- The Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica (PCJ) in relation to petroleum and petroleum products.
- The Jamaica Public Service Company Limited (JPSCo) in connection with light and power.
- The Rural Electrification Programme (REP) regarding the supply of electricity to non-urban areas.
The Energy Division is involved with energy-related policy-making and policy implementation.
The following Agencies fall under the portfolio of the Energy Division:
- Electricity Authority
- Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica
- Petrojam Limited
- Petroleum Company of Jamaica
- Rural Electrification Programme
- Petrojam/Ethanol Company Limited
- Wigton Windfarm Limited
mining division
The Mines and Geology Division of the Ministry has primary responsibility for execution of activities related to the mining portfolio. Under the Mining and the Quarries Control Acts, the Mines and Geology Division has statutory responsibility to exercise general supervision over all prospecting, mining and quarrying operations throughout Jamaica.
Mining plays an essential role in the country's foreign exchange earnings (contributing roughly 60%). The exploitation of mined resources in Jamaica has direct/indirect impacts on other sectors of the economy and the environment.
The Ministry works in collaboration with the Mines and Geology Division to ensure the smooth operation of all mining-related activities.
The following entities fall under the portfolio of the Mining Division:
- Bauxite and Alumina Trading Company (BATCO)
- Clarendon Alumina Production Limited (CAP)
- Jamaica Bauxite Institute (JBI)
- Jamaica Bauxite Mining (JBM)
- Mines and Geology Division