Currently, the state of electricity consumption in Antigua & Barbuda heavily relies on fossil fuels, which account for nearly all of the island's electricity generation at about 94%. This significant dependence on fossil energy overshadows the contribution of cleaner energy options. Low-carbon energy makes up just a tiny fraction, with solar power contributing the entirety of this group, equating to approximately 6% of the electricity mix. This limited adoption of clean energy resources underscores the potential for improvement, given the urgent global need to reduce reliance on fossil fuels to mitigate climate change and air pollution.

Is Electricity Growing in Antigua & Barbuda?

Despite the vital importance of increasing electricity supply to support development and innovation, the recent figures in Antigua & Barbuda exhibit a troubling trend of decline. In 2023, the electricity consumption per person was recorded at 3,859 kWh, showing a decrease compared to the historic peak in 2018 of 3,961 kWh per person, a reduction of 102 kWh. Similarly, the generation of low-carbon electricity per person saw a small drop from the record set in 2020 of 218 kWh to 214 kWh now. This downtrend is concerning and highlights the urgency for concerted efforts to revitalize and expand the electricity sector with a focus on sustainable options.

Suggestions

Antigua & Barbuda can look to regions and states that have successfully integrated a larger share of low-carbon electricity for guidance on amplifying their clean energy generation. The robust use of solar energy in Nevada, where it comprises 35% of electricity, serves as an excellent model for similar sunny climates. Similarly, the widespread adoption of nuclear energy as seen in countries like France, which generates about 67% of its electricity from nuclear, is illustrative of how strategically positioning nuclear can make a significant impact. Blending strategies from these global and local examples can help Antigua & Barbuda embark on a plausible path to not only increasing cleaner energy usage but also enhancing its overall energy security.

History

Historically, the development of low-carbon electricity in Antigua & Barbuda has seen minimal dynamic change. From 2015 through 2023, the contribution from solar energy remained stagnant with no recorded increase in generation. This consistency, devoid of growth, highlights missed opportunities in embracing technological advancements and tapping into the natural solar potential of the region. Revitalizing efforts toward solar and nuclear technologies should be seen as a promising solution to alter this static trend and drive the country toward a future where clean energy is the cornerstone of its electricity landscape.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade