Electricity in Cuba in 2023
As of 2023, Cuba's electricity consumption is heavily dominated by fossil fuels, which account for a substantial 95% of the total electricity generated. Gas plays a significant role within this category, comprising about 13% of the mix. In contrast, low-carbon energy sources make up nearly 5% of electricity consumption, with biofuels contributing over 2% and solar energy barely reaching 1.5%. The reliance on fossil fuels poses challenges not only in terms of sustainability but also with regards to the harmful environmental impacts such as climate change and air pollution, emphasizing the need for a shift towards cleaner energy alternatives.
Is Electricity Growing in Cuba?
Electricity consumption per person in Cuba has seen a decline from its peak in 2018, falling from 1853 kWh/person to the current figure of 1387 kWh/person, marking a reduction of 465 kWh/person. This downturn is concerning, especially as it coincides with a decrease in low-carbon electricity generation from its peak in 1990. Currently, low-carbon sources contribute only 65 kWh/person, down by 80 kWh/person from 1990. This decline in both total and low-carbon electricity generation suggests that Cuba is not progressing towards increased electricity availability or sustainability, which is vital for future economic growth and environmental resilience.
Suggestions
To boost its low-carbon electricity generation, Cuba can draw lessons from countries that successfully harness clean energy. For instance, Lebanon and Chile significantly use solar, contributing 31% and 22% of their electricity, respectively. These countries demonstrate a successful model for boosting solar energy, an avenue Cuba should explore given its geographic advantages. Similarly, nations with substantial wind energy, like Uruguay at 28% and Greece at 22%, provide insights into leveraging wind technology. A critical consideration for Cuba could also be exploring the potential of nuclear energy, as demonstrated by countries like Slovakia and Ukraine, where nuclear makes up over 60% and 55% of electricity, respectively. By diversifying energy sources and focusing on solar and nuclear, Cuba can move towards a sustainable and reliable electricity supply.
History
Historically, Cuba's low-carbon electricity generation has shown a fluctuating trend, particularly concerning biofuel usage. Significant decreases were observed in the early 70s and mid-90s, with further declines in the early 2000s indicating instability. The modest rise in biofuel generation in the late 1980s and early 2010s was insufficient to offset earlier losses. Meanwhile, solar started making a noticeable, albeit small, entrance in 2013, with minor increments in recent years. These patterns underscore the need for Cuba to stabilize and expand its low-carbon electricity infrastructure, notably through investments in emerging clean technologies like solar and nuclear that promise steady growth and long-term sustainability.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.