St Lucia Electricity Services Limited (LUCELEC) is proving that its energy isn’t just restricted to the grid. In a landmark year for corporate social responsibility, the utility company has shattered its internal records for environmental volunteerism, logging a staggering 374 volunteer hours dedicated to island-wide sustainability.
The achievement marks a significant milestone for the LUCELEC Volunteer Programme. Over the past year, nearly one hundred employees—representing more than a third of the company’s workforce—stepped away from their desks and technical stations to get their hands dirty for the planet.
The record-breaking momentum was most recently felt on the grounds of Clendon Mason Memorial Secondary School in Dennery. In a collaborative effort with the Ministry of Agriculture, LUCELEC volunteers participated in the Sustainable Snack Initiative, a program designed to swap processed snacks for fresh, homegrown produce.
Under the bright Saturday sun, a multi-generational team of volunteers, students, and forestry officers planted a variety of fruit trees, including lime and lemon, soursop, and fat pork.
The impact was felt immediately by the students. Five-year-old volunteer Shai, who proudly planted seven trees, noted his excitement in “helping the plants grow”, while student Angella Joseph highlighted how the project “helps students learn new things” while beautifying their campus.
For LUCELEC, this isn’t just a one-off corporate photo op. Corporate Communications Officer Richmond Felix noted that the planting exercise was actually oversubscribed, with more employees eager to help than spots available.
“This initiative is a physical manifestation of our commitment to a greener future,” Felix said. “We are driving this to ensure sustainable living and healthy eating for future generations.”
Forest Officer for the Dennery Range Marthas Peter praised the utility company for “taking the mantle” of environmental awareness, noting that such corporate partnerships are essential for the Ministry to meet its national sustainability goals.
