Electricity in Aruba in 2022

As of 2022, Aruba's electricity consumption is heavily dominated by fossil fuels, which constitute nearly 85% of its total electricity generation. Low-carbon sources, however, are starting to play a significant role. Wind energy accounts for more than 14% of the electricity generated, while solar power contributes a smaller share of about 1%. The combined share of these low-carbon sources is approximately 15%, indicating some progress towards cleaner energy, although there is considerable reliance on fossil fuels which have both environmental and health impacts.

Suggestions

To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Aruba can focus on expanding its wind energy infrastructure, given that wind currently forms a significant part of its low-carbon portfolio. Countries like Denmark, which generates more than half of its electricity from wind, serve as excellent examples. Furthermore, Aruba can look into diversifying its low-carbon sources by tapping into solar power more aggressively, following the lead of countries like Cyprus and Malta which generate around 15-17% of their electricity with solar. Leveraging these technologies not only ensures a greener environment but also a more sustainable and efficient energy system.

History

Looking back at the history of low-carbon electricity in Aruba, progress seems to have been gradual but steady. Wind energy saw its first notable increase in 2010, growing by 0.1 TWh. However, from 2011 to 2021, there were no significant changes in wind energy generation, indicating a period of stagnation. Solar energy efforts started in 2014, but similar to wind energy, saw no substantial climbs over the years. This indicates that while there has been some investment in low-carbon energy technologies, efforts in both wind and solar have yet to yield substantial and continuous growth in electricity generation. This historical context emphasizes the need for renewed and more aggressive strategies to scale up clean energy production in Aruba.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources