Electricity in Cuba in 2023
In 2023, Cuba's electricity consumption is primarily reliant on fossil fuels, which account for over 95% of the electricity generation. Within this fossil category, gas represents more than 13%, leaving a significant dependency on traditional, polluting energy sources. Meanwhile, low-carbon energy sources contribute a small fraction, almost 5%, to Cuba's electricity generation. Among these, biofuels are slightly above 2%, solar power accounts for just over 1%, and close to none of the electricity comes from other clean energy sources. This indicates a substantial opportunity and pressing need for growth in sustainable energy generation to reduce the environmental impact and enhance energy security in Cuba.
Is Electricity Growing in Cuba?
Recent trends in Cuba's electricity consumption reveal a concerning decline. The average electricity consumption per person in 2023 stands at 1387 kWh, a significant decrease of about 25% from the historic high of 1853 kWh/person in 2018. The situation is similarly troubling for low-carbon electricity, with the current generation of 65 kWh/person falling well short of the 145 kWh/person seen in the 1990s. This decline by 80 kWh/person suggests a backward step in developing clean energy solutions at a time when the world is moving towards increased low-carbon energy use. Raising these statistics could support both environmental goals and economic development.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation in Cuba, a strategic approach can be adopted from successful global examples in solar and nuclear energy. Countries like Lebanon and Chile have successfully harnessed solar power, contributing around 30% to 22% of their electricity, respectively. Cuba, with its abundant sunlight, could capitalize on similar opportunities. Nuclear energy, demonstrated successfully in countries like France and Slovakia with over 60% of electricity generated from this source, also presents a viable path. By investing in nuclear technology, Cuba can achieve a stable and substantial low-carbon energy share. This diversified approach would position Cuba as a more energy-secure and environmentally-responsible nation, capable of meeting future demands and reducing its carbon footprint significantly.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Cuba showcases a mixed progression, heavily tilted towards biofuels with sporadic growth in solar energy. In the 1970s, there were fluctuations in biofuel-based electricity, with minor increases recorded in the late 1970s and late 1980s. The early 1990s saw a downturn, but the mid-1990s brought some recovery, albeit unstable with ups and downs through subsequent decades. Solar energy saw a positive note, albeit slowly, with modest increments starting in 2013 and continuing into 2019. Despite these efforts, the overall contribution remains minimal, urging a re-evaluation and revitalization of Cuba’s approach toward sustainable electricity generation. Investing decisively in solar and potentially nuclear could provide the much-needed stability and growth in their energy portfolio.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.