Electricity in American Samoa in 2021
In 2021, the entirety of American Samoa's electricity consumption was derived from fossil sources. In other words, 100% of its energy usage came from non-renewable, carbon-intensive fuels. This suggests a complete dependence on fossil fuels, with no low-carbon or clean energy sources being utilised in their energy mix. Additionally, American Samoa operates as an isolated power system and does not import or export any electricity from or to neighbouring regions or countries.
Suggestions
One way American Samoa could increase their low-carbon electricity generation is through the adoption and installation of nuclear, wind and solar energy technologies. Looking at successful examples from other countries, France, Ukraine, and Slovakia have all significantly adopted nuclear energy, providing 61%, 58%, and 57% of their electricity, respectively. Interestingly, the island nation of Vanuatu, which shares similarities with American Samoa in terms of geographical and climate conditions, sources 14% of its electricity from solar power. Elsewhere, Denmark and Ireland are also notable cases, with wind energy representing more than half (52%) and a third (33%) of their electricity provision respectively. These examples suggest viable low-carbon alternatives for American Samoa's current fossil-fuel heavy energy picture.
History
As for the historical context, the data does not provide any specific information on low-carbon electricity in American Samoa. However, seeing as their current electrical supply is entirely reliant on fossil fuels, it can be inferred that there has been little to no historical precedence or change towards low-carbon, clean energy sources. As such, their energy history is likely dominated by fossil fuels and lacking in terms of sustainable, low-carbon options like nuclear, wind or solar power. The absence of such alternatives not only has implications for their environmental impact but also for their energy security and resilience in the face of depleting fossil resources. Consequently, the shift towards renewable sources, as seen in other countries, is a critical and pressing matter for their energy future. Notwithstanding this lack of historical change, the examples of other countries suggest that a transition is not only possible but distinctly beneficial.