As of 2022, Aruba's electricity consumption primarily relies on fossil fuels, accounting for a substantial 83% share of the total electricity generation. This indicates a predominant dependence on fossil-based energy, overshadowing the contributions from clean sources. However, there is a notable presence of low-carbon energy in the mix, making up 17% of the total. Among the low-carbon sources, wind power is the prominent contributor, representing 14% of the electricity supply. Solar energy, though smaller, still contributes a valuable 3% to Aruba’s electricity portfolio. This division showcases a significant opportunity for Aruba to shift further towards cleaner energy solutions and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.
Is Electricity Growing in Aruba?
Examining the growth of electricity in Aruba reveals a concerning trend. The latest figures from 2022 show an average consumption of 9281 kWh per person, which is 454 kWh less than the record high in 2007. This decline highlights a stagnation, if not a regression, in electricity consumption, which could be seen as a missed opportunity for economic and infrastructural growth. Similarly, when focusing on low-carbon electricity, there was a decrease in generation from the previous record of 1728 kWh per person in 2015 to 1578 kWh in 2022, a reduction of 150 kWh. This stagnation in low-carbon growth raises concerns, especially at a time when sustainable energy sources are crucial for counteracting climate change and pollution caused by fossil fuels.
Suggestions
To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Aruba should consider expanding its existing wind energy capacity, as it already plays a significant role in the energy mix. Drawing inspiration from successful regions can be beneficial. For instance, Denmark harnesses wind energy for 57% of its electricity needs, demonstrating the potential wind power holds. Similarly, countries like Lithuania and Uruguay also have notable shares of wind energy at 33% and 34%, respectively, which are worthy of emulation. Additionally, the global trend toward nuclear energy cannot be overlooked. With France and Slovakia generating over 60% of their electricity through nuclear power, Aruba could explore partnerships or investments in nuclear technology as a long-term solution for a clean and reliable energy supply. Lastly, the potential of solar energy, as seen in Greece and Chile where solar accounts for 26% and 23% of electricity, respectively, should encourage Aruba to expand its solar capacity alongside its wind developments.
History
Looking back at the history of low-carbon electricity in Aruba, wind energy has been a consistent contributor since 2009, with a modest increase of 0.1 TWh in 2010, but has remained stagnant since. Solar energy was introduced in 2014, yet its growth has been similarly static. Over the last decade, the lack of significant growth in either solar or wind energy represents a missed opportunity to bolster Aruba’s sustainable energy sector. While the established technologies exist, the challenge remains in catalyzing their expansion to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and combat the negative impacts of climate change effectively. Expanding the role of clean technologies, like wind and potentially solar and nuclear, should be prioritized to create a more sustainable and resilient energy future for Aruba.