In 2020, Bermuda's electricity consumption was entirely reliant on fossil fuels, with these conventional energy sources accounting for 100% of its electricity generation. This complete dependency on fossil fuels highlights a significant challenge for the nation, primarily due to the associated adverse environmental impacts such as climate change and air pollution. With no contribution from low-carbon or clean energy sources, Bermuda's electricity sector lacks the diversification that other countries have achieved by integrating sustainable energy options. This situation underscores the urgent need for a strategic transition toward cleaner energy solutions to reduce carbon emissions and environmental impact.
To enhance its low-carbon electricity production, Bermuda can look to other nations that have successfully integrated sustainable energy types. For instance, Denmark, Ireland, and Uruguay have effectively harnessed wind energy, achieving up to 59%, 34%, and 36% of their electricity generation from wind power, respectively. These countries have demonstrated the viability of wind power in regions with available wind resources. Similarly, with France and Slovakia deriving more than half of their electricity from nuclear power, Bermuda could consider the potential of nuclear energy as a reliable and substantial low-carbon energy source. Investing in wind, solar, and perhaps even nuclear energy infrastructure could provide Bermuda with the diverse and clean energy mix needed to move away from fossil fuel dependence.
Historically, Bermuda has not seen significant shifts toward low-carbon electricity. Due to the complete reliance on fossil fuels for power generation, the island has not yet embraced the advancements and integration of low-carbon technologies witnessed in other regions. This historical context indicates a lack of diversification efforts in the past decades, emphasizing the need for Bermuda to adopt a forward-thinking energy strategy that capitalizes on modern low-carbon technologies. Taking cues from global trends, Bermuda has the opportunity to pivot towards a greener energy future, learning from international experiences to implement suitable policies and investments. This approach will be crucial in aligning with global environmental goals and enhancing energy security on the island.