Electricity in Barbados in 2022

In 2022, the electricity consumption in Barbados was heavily skewed towards fossil fuels, with more than 90% of electricity generated from these sources. Specifically, fossil fuel-based electricity accounted for 92.66% of the total consumption, while low-carbon sources like solar energy contributed only about 7.34%. It is worth noting that the country does not yet generate any significant electricity from sources such as nuclear or wind power. The predominant reliance on fossil fuels poses significant challenges related to climate change and air pollution.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Barbados can draw lessons from other countries that have successfully transitioned to cleaner energy profiles. European countries like Denmark and the United Kingdom have made substantial strides in wind energy, with 61% and 29% of their electricity, respectively, coming from wind power. Similarly, Uruguay has also leveraged wind energy to reach 36% of low-carbon electricity generation. On the other hand, France has largely opted for nuclear power and generates 67% of its electricity from this clean source. For a small island nation, replicating a hybrid approach by developing both wind and potentially nuclear energy (as in the case of Cape Verde for wind and United Arab Emirates for nuclear) could be highly effective.

History

Barbados has a relatively short history in the realm of low-carbon electricity, with solar energy consistently growing but without notable increases until recent years. From 2014 to 2022, data indicates that solar energy did not show any significant net increase in electricity generation, staying at near-zero incremental TWh each year. This consistency suggests a need to implement more aggressive policies and investments aimed at scaling up solar power capacity. In light of this, it would be crucial for Barbados to prioritize the development of photovoltaic systems and perhaps consider integrating wind and nuclear solutions to diversify its energy mix and reduce dependency on fossil fuels.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources