The vision, the mission, and the future of Belize's energy
In Memory of Ulrick "Rick" Willoughby
Chief Strategic Officer – White Sands Energy LTD
Rick Willoughby was a visionary leader and one of the chief architects behind the Belize Energy Independence Initiative (BEII). As CSO of White Sands Energy, Rick worked tirelessly to position Belize as a regional pioneer in renewable energy and digital infrastructure.
On June 22, 2025, Rick was tragically killed in a home invasion at his home in San Ignacio. While we grieve his loss, we also carry forward the mission he championed—a mission that stands to benefit all Belizeans for generations to come.
A tragic event-
About the Belize Energy Independence Initiative (BEII)
The BEII is a bold, multi-phase national strategy focused on:
- Achieving full energy independence by 2030
- Becoming a net energy exporter by 2040
- Creating hundreds of high-skill jobs
- Modernizing Belize’s data and energy infrastructure
- Generating over $100 million USD in export revenue annually
The initiative integrates:
- A state-of-the-art Data Center powered by on-site geothermal systems
- 80MW of domestic renewable energy production (solar, geothermal, and waste-to-energy)
- National infrastructure upgrades tied to digital transformation
Together, we can make this a reality for Belize
Rick’s Efforts to Bring This to Cabinet
Through the leadership of Rick Willoughby, this initiative was brought to national attention at the highest levels of government. In January 2025, Rick successfully coordinated a preliminary presentation of the Belize Energy Independence Initiative (BEII) to several Cabinet members, facilitated through the Ministry of Sustainable Development.
Rick worked diligently behind the scenes to align stakeholders, brief ministers, and prepare the project for full Cabinet-level review and endorsement. His dedication helped elevate the BEII from a technical proposal to a nation-shaping opportunity with wide-reaching economic, environmental, and strategic benefits for Belize.
We are now continuing the process Rick began—committed to ensuring this project receives the thorough consideration and structured support it deserves.
What We’re Prepared to Do
We are prepared to:
- Present updated project materials reflecting improved waste-to-energy partners
- Provide comprehensive economic models, environmental analysis, and infrastructure plans
- Coordinate directly with Cabinet for formal review and guidance
- Share progress on securing a grant for the geothermal feasibility study, which will validate site performance, subsurface potential, and long-term scalability
This work builds upon the foundation Rick Willoughby established and reflects our commitment to delivering a fully vetted, globally competitive national infrastructure project.
Energy Independence for Belize
A National Opportunity. A Lasting Legacy
Rick Willoughby believed in a Belize that is sovereign, sustainable, and secure—a nation that stands on its own energy, creates its own opportunities, and protects its people with the strength of purpose and unity.
The Belize Energy Independence Initiative (BEII) is more than a project. It is a vision for the future of our country—one powered by innovation, built on integrity, and guided by leaders like Rick who saw beyond what is and envisioned what could be.
By advancing this initiative, we are not only investing in renewable energy and digital infrastructure—we are fulfilling a promise to our people: that progress in Belize will be led by Belizeans, for Belizeans.
This is our moment to turn tragedy into momentum.
To honor Rick’s life by building the future he worked for.
To show the world what Belize can become.
This is our opportunity. This is his legacy. Let’s carry it forward—together.
The Rick Willoughby Legacy Fund
Help Our Cause
To honor Rick’s life and work, White Sands Energy will establish the Rick Willoughby Legacy Fund upon award of the 80MW RFP contract.
The Fund will support:
- Victims of violent crime across Belize
- Law enforcement modernization
- Community-based safety and education programs
Your support will enable us to meet our goals.