Electricity in American Samoa in 2021

According to the provided data for 2021, American Samoa is entirely reliant on fossil energy sources for its electricity production. This means that 100% of its electricity generation is sourced from high-carbon energy, leading to significant greenhouse gas emissions. As of yet, low-carbon energy sources are virtually non-existent in its energy landscape. There is, therefore, a massive potential for introducing low-carbon, clean energy sources to its electricity generation mix to decrease its carbon footprint and make its electricity generation more sustainable.

Suggestions

To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, American Samoa could learn from countries that have successfully shifted away from fossil fuels and adopted clean energy sources. For instance, France generates 66% and Slovakia 61% of their electricity from nuclear power, an effective low-carbon energy source. Denmark and Uruguay, with similar island vulnerabilities to American Samoa, have capitalized on their wind resources: Denmark generates 59% and Uruguay 40% of their electricity from wind power. Even small island countries like Vanuatu and Samoa have begun harnessing solar power, generating 14% and 12% of their electricity respectively. American Samoa could consider developing nuclear power like France and Slovakia or harnessing its wind and solar resources like Denmark, Uruguay, Vanuatu, and Samoa, adjusting the strategy based on its environmental and resource conditions.

History

Unfortunately, data concerning the historical evolution of low-carbon electricity in American Samoa is not readily available so we are unable to assess progress or setbacks in this area. However, in general, new technological advancements, declining costs of wind and solar installations, and an increased international focus on climate change could potentially boost the expansion of low-carbon energy in American Samoa, much like in other regions. The imperative, however, remains to diverge from its complete reliance on fossil fuels towards a more diversified, clean, and green energy mix that considers nuclear, wind, and solar resources.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources