Electricity in Bahamas in 2022
Currently, the electricity consumption in the Bahamas is overwhelmingly dominated by fossil fuels, with close to all (over 99%) of its electricity derived from these sources in 2022. This extensive dependency on fossil fuels presents significant environmental concerns, particularly with regards to contributing to climate change and local air pollution. Regrettably, the proportion of electricity generated from low-carbon or clean sources remains close to nonexistent in the Bahamas, illustrating a clear opportunity for transition and investment in more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy systems such as solar and nuclear power.
Is Electricity Growing in Bahamas?
In examining the growth of electricity usage in the Bahamas, the situation appears challenging. While overall electricity consumption per person, standing at approximately 5,157 kWh as of 2022, is notably lower than the previous record back in 2007, which saw around 6,369 kWh per person, there is a positive development in clean energy. Low-carbon electricity generation has increased to 50 kWh per person, which is double its previous record in 2020. This suggests that while the overall consumption has decreased as compared to the peak, the share of clean energy in the mix is beginning to make small strides, though there's a long way to go.
Suggestions
The Bahamas could greatly enhance its low-carbon electricity generation by learning from other regions. For instance, countries like South Korea and Arizona have integrated substantial nuclear energy into their electricity mix, with 30% and 28% respectively. On the solar front, countries such as Lebanon and Spain have successfully captured sunlight to produce 31% and 21% of their electricity needs. By focusing on developing both nuclear and solar power, the Bahamas has a prime opportunity to diversify its energy sources. Emulating the successful clean energy strategies of these regions will not only help in reducing reliance on fossil fuels but also ensure a sustainable and cleaner future for the Bahamian archipelago.
History
Historically, the Bahamas has seen stagnant progress in the use of solar energy in recent years. Over the past three years—2020, 2021, and 2022—there has been no net growth in solar electricity generation, maintaining a change of zero TWh each year. Such stagnation is concerning, particularly when considering the global shift towards low-carbon solutions. Given the significant solar potential in the region, the lack of growth in solar power generation underscores the urgent need for strategic investments and policy initiatives aimed at bolstering clean energy development to harness the natural advantages the Bahamas possesses.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.