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Inos now oversees renewable energy matters
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Posted on Dec 03 2011
By Haidee V. Eugenio
Reporter
Reporter
Gov. Benigno R. Fitial gave Lt. Gov. Eloy S. Inos full authority to oversee and direct all activities related to the implementation of renewable-based energy production in the CNMI.
Inos has been acting governor since Wednesday when Fitial left for Hong Kong on personal leave.
Two days prior to his off-island trip, Fitial gave Inos additional duties besides being his lieutenant governor and having authority over government finances. Inos is a former Finance secretary.
“I have special trust and confidence in Lieutenant Governor Eloy S. Inos to lead our efforts to make renewable-based energy production a reality,” the governor said in a Nov. 28 designation of authority.
Fitial, whose administration has been pushing for renewable energy production in the CNMI, said present utility rates are harming CNMI residents and crippling the islands’ ability to attract new investments and new jobs.
He added that diesel-based electrical power production is harmful to the environment, expensive, a challenge to maintain, and not sustainable for the long-term benefit of the CNMI.
Fitial said technology exists to transform the Commonwealth to renewable-based energy production, and the Office of the Governor is appropriate to lead efforts to bring renewable-based energy production to the CNMI.
The governor also said production of at least 20 percent of CNMI energy needs to occur within a two-year period.
Lastly, the governor directed all members of his administration to assist Inos as he assumes additional duties related to renewable energy production.
