# Dominican Republic energy and mining sector development > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/dominican-republic-energy-and-mining-sector-development > Updated: 2026-09-16T22:05:15.000Z. Sources: 25. Developments: 2. The Dominican Republic continues to expand its energy and mining sectors through diversification and strategic resource management. In the mining sector, exports reached US$2,047 million between January and July 2026, marking a 52.8% year-on-year increase. Minister of Energy and Mines Joel Santos has emphasized a strategic shift from simple extraction toward value-added processing. Exploration of rare earth elements in Pedernales remains a priority, with a definitive resource determination expected by November 2026 to assess reserves critical for the global energy transition. In the energy sector, the government is managing the impact of international oil prices remaining above US$100 per barrel. Following the end of a 90-day freeze on fuel prices, the government has provided subsidies exceeding RD$33,807 million in 2026 to mitigate consumer costs. While LPG and natural gas prices have remained stable, premium gasoline and optimal diesel prices have increased. To reduce vulnerability to market volatility, the nation is diversifying its energy matrix; renewable sources now account for more than 25% of the supply, while oil dependence has been lowered to approximately 10%. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-16: Dominican Republic mining exports surge 52.8% to over US$2 billion The Dominican Republic reports a 52.8% surge in mining exports and is targeting rare earth element processing. Meanwhile, the government uses subsidies to manage rising fuel costs amid energy diversification. 22 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dominican-republic-highlights-energy-diversification-and-mining-growth ### 2026-08-21: Dominican Republic promotes hydrocarbon potential in Houston The Dominican Republic promoted its oil and gas exploration potential and sedimentary basin investment opportunities at the Image 2026 energy conference in Houston, Texas. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dominican-republic-promotes-hydrocarbon-potential-in-houston --- Cite as: Dominican Republic energy and mining sector development. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/dominican-republic-energy-and-mining-sector-development