Electricity in Curaçao in 2018

In 2018, Curaçao's power supply was primarily dominated by fossil fuel, primarily oil, which accounted for roughly 71% of the island's electricity consumption. With respect to low-carbon energy sources, they made up just over 29% of the nation's power supply. Of this low-carbon energy share, wind power overwhelmingly contributed the most with approximately 27% while solar energy had a marginal contribution of just above 2%.

Suggestions

To raise its share of low-carbon electricity generation, Curaçao could follow the example of countries that have successfully increased their low-carbon energy sources. Given its significant wind power potential, a considerable increase from current levels is feasible and sustainable. Denmark, for instance, generates nearly 60% of its electricity from wind power, a model that could be replicated in Curaçao considering the similarities in geographical conditions suitable for wind farms. It could also consider nuclear energy, like France, which remarkably generates 66% of its power from nuclear energy, providing a stable, clean source of energy.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in Curaçao is relatively recent and dominated by wind energy. Prior to the beginning of the 21st century, wind energy was practically nonexistent. It was only in 2001 that Curaçao began generating electricity from wind power albeit on a very small scale. The decade following however, saw no significant increase in wind electricity generation. Notable additions were only made in 2013 and 2018. Solar energy's debut was even later, introduced in 2013, but it has failed to pick up the pace since then, contributing meagre amounts to the nation's electricity supply. This underlines the urgent need for concentrated efforts to boost low-carbon energy sources in Curaçao.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources