In 2022, fossil fuels supplied 83% of Aruba’s electricity consumption—more than four-fifths—while low-carbon sources provided the remaining 17%, or roughly one-sixth. Wind supplied 14% of electricity and solar contributed 3%. Wind therefore accounted for most of Aruba’s clean electricity, but fossil fuels still dominated its electricity supply, contributing to climate change and air pollution.

Is Electricity Growing in Aruba?

Aruba’s electricity consumption per person remained below its historical peak in 2022, rather than setting a new growth record. Consumption reached about 9,300 kWh per person, around 450 kWh, or 5%, below the 2007 record of roughly 9,700 kWh. Low-carbon electricity generation was about 1,600 kWh per person, around 150 kWh, or 9%, below its 2015 peak. These shortfalls are concerning as electrification and growing digital demand increase the need for clean electricity. However, comparisons with historical records alone do not establish whether electricity consumption grew or declined in the latest year.

Suggestions

Aruba should expand its established wind generation while accelerating solar deployment. Relevant island examples include the US state of Hawaii and Cyprus, where solar supplies about 23% of electricity, and Cape Verde, where it supplies 14%. These places offer useful benchmarks for increasing Aruba’s modest solar share. Denmark, with almost 60% of its electricity generated by wind, also demonstrates how much further wind’s contribution can grow. Aruba should additionally consider nuclear electricity as part of its long-term clean electricity planning, including assessing options suited to its electricity system. France generates about two-thirds of its electricity from nuclear, while the United Arab Emirates generates one-fifth, illustrating nuclear’s substantial contribution alongside other low-carbon sources.

History

Aruba’s recorded low-carbon electricity history shows one clear expansion followed by a long period without further growth at the precision provided. Wind generation increased by 0.1 TWh in 2010, following no reported change in 2009. From 2011 through 2021, every listed annual change in wind generation was zero. Solar likewise recorded no annual change in the entries covering 2014–2020. These rounded figures may conceal small changes, but the absence of further recorded gains highlights a disappointing loss of momentum and the importance of renewed investment in clean electricity generation.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade