In 2023, the electricity consumption profile of Antigua & Barbuda reveals a heavy reliance on fossil energy sources, with more than 90% of electricity derived from fossil fuels. In contrast, the contribution from low-carbon sources is limited, with solar power being the sole representative at just over 5% of the total electricity mix. This indicates that Antigua & Barbuda has made some progress toward adopting cleaner energy but still has a significant journey ahead to reduce its dependency on high-emission fossil fuels. Fortunately, the modest use of solar energy opens the door for further expansion and a cleaner future.

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

Is Electricity Growing in Antigua & Barbuda?

The current electricity consumption per person in Antigua & Barbuda stands at approximately 3860 kWh, a slight decrease from the 2018 high of around 3960 kWh. This decline may suggest stagnation in demand or insufficient infrastructure growth to support more sustainable patterns. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation has also observed a downturn, dipping to 214 kWh per person from its peak of 218 kWh in 2020. These trends underline a worrying indication that the nation might not be moving quickly enough toward expanding and enhancing its electricity infrastructure, particularly in the low-carbon domain, which is vital for reducing emissions and fostering sustainable development.

Suggestions

For Antigua & Barbuda to increase its low-carbon electricity generation, looking at regions with a successful transition to cleaner energy sources is essential. Expanding solar energy generation is a natural step; neighboring regions like Lebanon and Cyprus, where solar power accounts for more than 20% of electricity, serve as great examples. Additionally, exploring nuclear energy can offer stable and substantial electricity supply, evidenced by countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy fulfills more than half of their electricity needs. By learning from these regions, Antigua & Barbuda could significantly shift towards low-carbon energy and disrupt its current fossil-fuel dependency.

History

Historically, the development of low-carbon electricity in Antigua & Barbuda has primarily been focused on solar energy, but growth remains nonexistent. From as early as 2015 through to 2023, the solar electricity generation has seen no notable increase year on year. Such a static trend indicates missed opportunities in harnessing the island’s abundant solar potential. Moving forward, it is crucial for Antigua & Barbuda to strategize and invest in its solar infrastructure while considering nuclear power as a complementary source, fostering a dynamic transition to a more robust and cleaner electricity system.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade