Condemning solar-battery theft
Published:Friday | April 12, 2013 | 12:00 AM
THE EDITOR, Sir:
I would like to condemn the recent theft of the 53 batteries from the solar-lighting system along the Highway 2000 corridor.
The solar-powered lights are the latest state-of-the-art upgrade that was introduced to help reduce Jamaica's cost of generating electricity. The wholesale theft of these solar batteries is a handicap to modernisation in Jamaica.
I propose that going forward:
1. The Government should explore purchasing units that don't stick out as solar-powered lights.
2. They should not publicise the installation of additional units.
3. If possible, they should embed tracking devices within these units to trace them if they are stolen.
4. Provide effective police patrol in areas where these lights are installed.
5. In addition, the courts should throw the book at anyone caught and convicted of stealing these batteries to send a strong message that this will not be tolerated.
We can deter future theft of these energy-saving units, which Jamaica desperately needs to help wean ourselves off of petroleum addiction.
PATRICK CALLUM