Geothermal Resources Development Act No. 13 of 2015.

The main purposes of this Act are to (i) encourage and facilitate the safe production of geothermal energy for the benefit of the people of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; (ii) encourage effective land management in the development and use of geothermal resources; and (iii) promote the use of renewable energy. This Act sets forth provisions on the establishment, organization, duties and responsibilities of the National Energy Committee, and moreover procedures of designation of geothermal resources areas, permit, license or concession to conduct geothermal resources activities, rights of holder of license and concession, compliance, enforcement and safety measures, registration of all related information, dispute settlement and financial provisions. The Committee may appoint sub-committee, working groups or advisory bodies to assist in the performance of its function or to further the objects of this Act. In case of a threat to human safety or the environment, the Committee may, after consultation with the Minister and in coordination with other appropriate governmental entities, undertake emergency response activities. This Act underlines that an application for a permit, license or concession may not be made for the lands in a forest reserve, terrestrial and marine national park and protected area, wildlife sanctuary or other similar area. The right of use and the rights of way shall only be granted to a person authorized to carry out geothermal resources activities under this Act in the relevant geothermal resources areas. The Minister responsible for energy may make regulations for the implementation of the provisions of this Act.