Electricity in Antigua & Barbuda in 2023
The current state of electricity consumption in Antigua & Barbuda reveals a heavy reliance on fossil fuels, which account for an overwhelming 94% of the total electricity generated. In sharp contrast, low-carbon electricity, including solar energy, comprises just over 5% of the energy mix. This indicates that while there is some involvement in clean energy, it remains a significantly minor player in the nation's energy landscape, relying exclusively on solar for its low-carbon energy. The predominance of fossil fuels underscores the need for a major transition towards cleaner energy sources to combat climate change and reduce environmental impacts.
Is Electricity Growing in Antigua & Barbuda?
In terms of growth, Antigua & Barbuda has witnessed a slight decline in electricity consumption. In 2023, the total electricity consumption was approximately 3,860 kWh per person, which is slightly lower than the previous record of nearly 3,960 kWh per person in 2018. This presents a decrease of 102 kWh per person. Likewise, low-carbon electricity generation has seen a minor reduction, from 218 kWh per person in 2020 to 214 kWh per person in 2023. The reductions in both total and clean electricity generation highlight a challenging period for energy development, raising concerns about expanding electricity access while enhancing environmental sustainability through low-carbon sources.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Antigua & Barbuda can learn from successful regions that have invested heavily in clean energy technologies. For instance, Lebanon has achieved a remarkable 31% of its electricity from solar, demonstrating the potential for significant solar energy integration in sunny climates. Additionally, regions such as Nevada and Cyprus, with similar solar capabilities, generate 29% and 21% of their electricity from solar, respectively. Nuclear energy is also a cornerstone of clean energy grids, as evidenced by France, where 69% of electricity is nuclear-based. By considering these examples, Antigua & Barbuda can pursue policies that expand solar infrastructure and explore the feasibility of incorporating nuclear energy to transition towards a more sustainable and resilient energy system.
History
Historically, the development of low-carbon electricity in Antigua & Barbuda has been stagnant over the last decade. Since 2015, there has been no significant change in solar electricity generation; it has remained unchanged each year through 2023. This lack of progress calls for a renewed focus on diversifying and expanding the clean energy sector. Encouraging investments in green technologies, especially solar and nuclear, could be pivotal for Antigua & Barbuda to overcome its current low-carbon stagnation and to significantly reduce its dependence on fossil fuels, aligning energy practices with global sustainability goals.