As of 2020, Bermuda's electricity consumption relied entirely on fossil fuels, accounting for 100% of its electricity generation. This reliance signifies an absence of low-carbon energy sources in the country's electricity matrix. The complete dependence on fossil fuels not only exacerbates issues related to climate change and air pollution but also makes Bermuda vulnerable to fluctuations in global fossil fuel markets. With the global shift towards clean energy, Bermuda stands out as an outlier, as it depends entirely on traditional fossil fuel methods, which is neither sustainable nor environmentally friendly.
To transition towards a more sustainable electricity generation model, Bermuda can draw inspiration from countries that have successfully integrated low-carbon energy sources into their grids. Denmark, for example, generates over half of its electricity from wind energy, demonstrating that with the right infrastructure and policy support, significant portions of electricity demand can be met by wind power. Similarly, Lebanon's focus on solar energy accounts for almost a third of its electricity generation. Cape Verde, a small island nation like Bermuda, has managed to incorporate 14% of its electricity from both wind and solar sources. By investing in solar and wind technologies and exploring the potential for nuclear energy, Bermuda can diversify its energy mix, reduce its carbon footprint, and improve its energy security.
Historically, the journey towards low-carbon electricity in Bermuda has been non-existent, as indicated by the lack of records or progression in adopting clean energy technologies over the decades. This singular focus on fossil fuels has left Bermuda without any development in terms of solar, wind, or nuclear electricity generation. Adopting low-carbon technologies is an overdue imperative which can place Bermuda in alignment with global sustainability trends. The gradual but necessary shift towards greener electricity sources should take precedence to ensure a sustainable and environmentally responsible future. By looking at the progress made in other regions, Bermuda can make informed decisions about its energy strategy moving forward.