In 2018, electricity consumption in Curaçao was largely dependent on fossil fuels, with oil contributing to more than two-thirds of the total electricity generation. Specifically, fossil energy sources accounted for about 71% of electricity consumption. On the other hand, low-carbon energy made up nearly a third of the electricity mix in Curaçao. Most of this clean energy was generated from wind power, which accounted for approximately 27% of the total electricity. Solar energy contributed a smaller portion, at just over 2%. Overall, while a significant portion of electricity was generated through sustainable sources, there remains a high dependency on fossil fuels, which can be environmentally harmful.

Is Electricity Growing in Curaçao?

Electricity usage in Curaçao has seen a significant decline in recent years. In 2018, the average electricity consumption dropped to 4770 kWh per person, a significant decrease of over 3600 kWh per person from the peak level reached in 2010 when it was recorded at 8436 kWh per person. However, there is a positive trend within the low-carbon sector, as the generation of clean electricity in 2018 rose to 1394 kWh per person, up by 278 kWh per person from its previous high in 2017. This shows a commitment to an increased share of cleaner electricity, even as overall consumption trends downwards, leaving room for improvement in total electricity demand to support economic growth and modernization.

Suggestions

To further bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Curaçao should expand its wind energy capacity, as it already plays a significant role. Beyond wind, opportunities exist in solar and potentially nuclear energy, as evidenced by successful examples from other regions. For instance, countries like Denmark and states like Iowa have achieved high levels of wind-generated electricity, around 60% and 57% respectively, demonstrating the potential of further investment in this sector. Meanwhile, solar can draw inspiration from regions like Nevada and California, where solar power generates around 30% of electricity. For a more sustained base-load solution, the examples of nuclear energy contributions in European countries such as France, which achieves 67% of its electricity from nuclear, can be informative. By learning from such regions, Curaçao can strengthen its green energy portfolio, reduce its fossil fuel dependence, and minimize the environmental impact of electricity production.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in Curaçao reveals a gradual and promising shift towards sustainable sources over recent decades. For much of the 1990s, there was no reported change in low-carbon electricity generation, indicating stagnant progress in the early years. However, in 2001, there was a modest yet critical development where wind energy generation began, marking the start of Curaçao's journey into low-carbon electricity. Between 2008 and 2016, changes were minor, but in 2017 and 2018, wind power saw small but welcoming increases. Solar energy’s contribution started being tracked in 2013, indicating an awareness and growing interest in diversifying low-carbon sources. Though progress initially seemed slow, the steady increases reflect a growing commitment to enhance the share of clean energy. As the world moves towards greener energy solutions, Curaçao's ongoing efforts in developing its wind and solar sectors represent promising steps towards a sustainable energy future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade