Belize's current electricity consumption in 2023 showcases a predominantly clean, green energy landscape, with more than half of its electricity deriving from low-carbon sources. Hydropower and biofuels lead the way in this category, contributing almost a third and over a fifth, respectively, to the overall mix. Additionally, solar energy, though contributing only a small fraction, adds to the clean energy portfolio. The remaining electricity supply in Belize largely comes from substantial net imports, accounting for almost 40% of the total, while fossil fuels contribute a relatively minor part at less than 7%. This reflects a positive trend towards sustainable energy production and limited reliance on fossil fuels, essential for minimizing climate change and reducing air pollution.

Is Electricity Growing in Belize?

Despite the clean energy progress, Belize has seen a concerning decline in its per capita electricity consumption from the previous high. In 2023, the total electricity consumption is recorded at 1776 kWh per person, a drop of around 557 kWh per person from the historic peak in 2019. Moreover, low-carbon electricity generation alone is also down from its previous record, dropping by 193 kWh per person compared to 2019. These figures indicate that Belize's electricity consumption is not currently growing, underlining the need to bolster efforts in expanding low-carbon energy production for sustainable development and meeting future demands.

Suggestions

To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Belize should aim to increase its investment in solar and nuclear energy. Drawing lessons from regions like California and Nevada, where solar power already makes up more than 30% of electricity generation, Belize could similarly exploit its abundant sunshine. Moreover, adopting strategies from countries such as France and Slovakia, where nuclear power contributes more than half of their electricity, could provide a reliable and substantial increase in Belize’s clean energy output. These combined efforts can bring Belize closer to meeting sustainable energy targets, securing a cleaner and more resilient electricity system in the future.

History

Historically, the evolution of low-carbon electricity in Belize has been marked by gradual increments, particularly through hydropower and biofuels. Starting from the early 2000s, hydropower has seen small but steady increases, notably in 2000, 2006, and 2013. However, this growth was interspersed with periods of stagnation or decline, such as in 2021. Biofuels made a notable advance in 2010 and 2012, though this was offset by a slight reduction in 2013. These patterns suggest periods of reliance on both hydropower and biofuels to increase Belize’s low-carbon electricity capacity, highlighting the critical need for continuous efforts and diversification in clean energy sources, such as solar and nuclear, to sustain and enhance Belize's electricity growth.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade