In 2023, Antigua & Barbuda's electricity landscape is overwhelmingly dominated by fossil fuels, which account for more than 90% of the total power generated. Low-carbon energy sources, all of which are derived from solar power, make up a minor portion, contributing around 6% to the electricity mix. This heavy reliance on fossil energies signals a significant opportunity for improvement, especially since low-carbon energy options exist that can drastically reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change while enhancing energy security.

Data sources used on this page include Ember. More about data sources →

Is Electricity Growing in Antigua & Barbuda?

The current trajectory of electricity consumption in Antigua & Barbuda has experienced a slight decline. The total electricity use per person has dropped to 3,859 kWh from the historic high of 3,961 kWh recorded in 2018. This setback is accompanied by a small decrease in low-carbon electricity generation per person, from the record 218 kWh in 2020 to 214 kWh in 2023. Such stagnation suggests an urgent need for strategic interventions to reverse these trends and support a growth trajectory that prioritizes sustainable energy sources.

Suggestions

To bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, Antigua & Barbuda could learn from regions that have successfully integrated higher shares of solar and nuclear energy into their grids. North Macedonia and Cyprus are countries that have harnessed solar power to contribute almost half and over 20% of their electricity supply, respectively. In Nevada, solar generation has also reached 34%. By investing in solar infrastructure, and considering future nuclear options mirroring the success of countries like France and Slovakia, Antigua & Barbuda could make significant gains in reducing reliance on fossil fuels, securing a sustainable energy future, and mitigating climate-related risks.

History

Historically, the progress of low-carbon electricity generation in Antigua & Barbuda has been disappointingly static. Since 2015, there has been no reported increase in solar electricity output, with all annual reports showing zero changes in generation in TWh. This lack of development over recent years highlights a critical area for potential growth. By adopting strategies to expand solar capacity, alongside exploring the feasibility of nuclear energy—a consistent low-carbon contributor employed in numerous other countries—Antigua & Barbuda can significantly enhance its clean energy footprint and contribute to global sustainability efforts.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade