Belize’s electricity consumption in 2023 reveals a mixed energy landscape where low-carbon sources form the backbone of the electricity sector. More than half of the nation's electricity—close to 55%—is generated from low-carbon sources. Notably, hydropower constitutes almost a third of this share, and biofuels contribute an additional one-fifth. Solar power plays a minor yet noticeable role, producing a bit more than 1% of total electricity. Meanwhile, fossil fuels account for nearly 7% of electricity generation, while another significant portion, about 38%, is sourced from electricity imports. The current mix reflects a tilt towards low-carbon energy, but the dependency on net imports and a minor fossil fuel component highlight areas where further emphasis on domestic clean energy is necessary.
Is Electricity Growing in Belize?
Recent trends in Belize raise concerns about electricity consumption. In 2023, the per capita electricity usage was 1776 kWh, a decline from the peak of 2333 kWh in 2019. This reduction of 557 kWh per person is mirrored in the low-carbon segment, where the current consumption stands at 973 kWh per person, down by 193 kWh from its 2019 peak. These decreases underscore a troubling contraction in overall electricity consumption as well as specifically in the low-carbon sector. Such decreases may impede Belize's progress towards a more sustainable energy future, urging targeted efforts to reverse this trajectory.
Suggestions
To bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, Belize can draw lessons from countries that have effectively increased clean energy output. Lebanon, with solar energy generating 31% of its electricity, and the wind-driven success in Uruguay at 28%, could serve as models due to their manageable scale. Belize might consider enhancing its solar and wind capabilities to replicate these achievements. Nuclear power, despite being a major force in larger nations, may inspire Belize to maintain its technological sophistication and openness to evolving energy solutions while pursuing solar advancements. By learning from successful examples, Belize can create a robust low-carbon infrastructure that supports a cleaner and more sustainable future.
History
The evolution of low-carbon electricity in Belize reveals incremental growth over recent decades, particularly through hydropower and biofuels. In 2000 and 2006, hydropower saw modest increases of 0.1 TWh. From 2010 to 2013, biofuels consistently added to their output, with particular growth in 2010 and 2012. However, there were also periods of stagnation, exemplified by years with no growth in hydro, such as 2003, and a setback in 2013 when biofuels generation decreased by 0.1 TWh. A small decline occurred in 2021 when hydropower dropped by 0.1 TWh, only to rebound in 2022. This history reflects Belize's efforts to harness its low-carbon resources, but also highlights the need for sustainable strategies that consistently elevate clean electricity generation.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.