Electricity in Cuba in 2023
Cuba's electricity consumption in 2023 showcases a heavily fossil-dependent energy structure, with fossil fuels accounting for approximately 95% of the total electricity generation. Around 13% of this comes from gas. Clean energy sources, which are crucial for sustainable development, make up about 5% of the mix. Biofuels contribute a little over 2%, while solar energy accounts for just over 1%. The stark dominance of fossil fuels in Cuba's electricity generation underlines the urgent need for transitioning towards more sustainable energy sources to mitigate the negative impacts of fossil fuel consumption, such as climate change and air pollution.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Cuba?
In recent years, electricity consumption in Cuba, measured per capita, has seen a decline. The latest data from 2023 indicates a consumption of about 1387 kWh per person, which is notably less than the record of 1856 kWh per person set in 2018. This represents a decrease of nearly 470 kWh per person over five years. Similarly, there has been a reduction in low-carbon electricity generation from its previous peak in 1990, where 145 kWh per person was recorded, to just 65 kWh per person in the latest data, marking a decrease of about 80 kWh. This stagnation and decline in both total and low-carbon electricity poses concerns for Cuba, especially as many global trends indicate a growing demand for electricity due to technological advancements and the push towards greener economies.
Suggestions
To increase its share of low-carbon electricity, Cuba could draw lessons from regions that have effectively harnessed nuclear and solar energy. Countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear power generates more than two-thirds of the electricity, demonstrate the potential of nuclear energy to meet large portions of energy demand with a low carbon footprint. Similarly, Lebanon has successfully integrated solar energy into its electricity generation with solar accounting for over 30%. By investing in and expanding both nuclear and solar infrastructure, Cuba can significantly enhance its clean electricity production, reducing dependency on fossil fuels and aligning with global efforts towards a sustainable energy future.
History
Looking back at the history of Cuba's electricity, biofuels have intermittently contributed to the energy mix, with variable changes over the years. In the 1970s and 80s, biofuels saw minor fluctuations but continued contributing modestly to the electricity generation. The 1990s and early 2000s depicted more pronounced declines, notably during the early 1990s and mid-2000s. A small but positive change occurred in 2018 with the introduction of solar energy into Cuba's energy profile, followed by minor decreases in biofuel usage in subsequent years up to 2022. The historical movements in Cuba's low-carbon electricity generation highlight the need for stable and consistent investment in diversified clean energy sources to achieve energy security and sustainability.
