In Belize, electricity generation features a significant contribution from low-carbon sources, accounting for more than half, about 55%, of the current electricity supply. This is a promising sign for the country's energy transition. Hydropower leads the charge in low-carbon generation, contributing almost a third of the total electricity, followed by notable biofuel use, which contributes more than a fifth. Solar power, while still a small component of the electricity mix at just over 1%, represents much potential for expansion. On the other hand, fossil fuels play a very minimal role, contributing to less than 7% of Belize's electricity supply. Notably, the country also relies heavily on net imports, which cover around 38% of electricity consumption, highlighting a strong dependence on external sources for its energy needs.
Is Electricity Growing in Belize?
Electricity consumption in Belize appears to be experiencing a downward trend, contrary to the anticipated growth needed to meet future electrification demands. The latest consumption figures indicate a negative shift, dropping from a previous high of 2333 kWh per person in 2019 to 1776 kWh per person in 2023. A similar decline is seen in low-carbon electricity generation, which saw a reduction from 1166 kWh per person to 973 kWh per person over the same period. This is concerning as it signifies a step backward in the country's efforts to build a clean and sustainable energy system. Now it's crucial for Belize to innovate and strategize methods to not only regain lost ground but also continue expanding its low-carbon electricity capacity.
Suggestions
To bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, Belize could look to regions that have successfully transitioned to higher shares of clean electricity. For instance, countries like Lebanon have harnessed a substantial proportion of their electricity from solar, achieving 31% solar share. In a similar vein, Nevada in the United States generates 27% of its electricity from solar power. As Belize seeks to enhance its low-carbon energy portfolio, introducing nuclear energy could also be a viable long-term solution, evidenced by countries like Slovakia and France where nuclear power constitutes over 60% and 68%, respectively, of their electricity generation. These examples demonstrate the potential of solar and nuclear energy, both well-suited to Belize’s needs for a cleaner and more self-reliant energy future.
History
Looking back at the history of low-carbon electricity in Belize, the country first tapped into hydropower in the year 2000, with small yet steady increases over the years. The early 2010s marked a period of development with both hydro and biofuels being developed. Notably, in 2010 both hydropower and biofuels saw simultaneous growth. However, beyond 2013, advancements became sporadic, with some years experiencing stagnation or even minor declines, particularly concerning biofuels. Despite past challenges, there is clear potential for Belize to expand its clean electricity supply, and recent increases in hydropower in 2022 highlight a continued commitment to enhancing low-carbon energy production. Going forward, Belize's focus should be on adopting innovative solutions and expanding efforts to secure a sustainable, clean, and reliable electricity future.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.