In the now distant past, 18th century, the largest contributor to the Barbadian economy was sugar cane production. This important industry helped lay the foundation of the country as we know it today. By the 20th century the largest contributor to the economy became tourism, with over one million tourists visiting the island each year. [1] Although centuries apart at their respective peaks, the sugar industry and the tourism industry share a vital component to their success: sunshine.
Barbadian sugar industry
Photo credit: www.caribpro.com
Barbadian tourism industry
The abundant sunshine and the tropical climate in Barbados are what made sugar cane production possible. Via the process of photosynthesis, sunlight enabled the creation of sugar within the plant. With the tourism industry, visitors are attracted to the sun, sand and sea. Once again the sun plays a pivotal role in contributing to the economy of Barbados. Without the high levels of sunshine enjoyed by the island, the number of visitors would be far less.
Now in the 21st century we can continue the trend by investing in solar PV technology. High energy costs, falling cost of panels and a vast solar resource are setting Barbados on track for another major economy built around sunshine. Sugar is the past, tourism is the present and solar energy is the future.
Barbadian solar PV industry
References
[1] Caribbean Property Magazine