Electricity in Dominica in 2023
As of 2023, electricity consumption in Dominica relies heavily on fossil fuels, which contribute to over 85% of the total electricity generation. In stark contrast, clean energy sources account for just over 13% of the island's electricity, originating entirely from hydropower. This signifies a heavy dependence on fossil fuel-based electricity, with clean energy sources yet to achieve a more substantial foothold. This imbalance highlights the potential for growth and the need to pivot towards more sustainable and clean electricity generation methods to reduce environmental impacts such as air pollution and climate change.
Data sources used on this page include Ember. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Dominica?
Looking at whether electricity consumption is on the rise in Dominica, data shows a concerning trend. The latest electricity consumption sits at 2256 kWh per person, which is slightly below the previous record of 2300 kWh per person achieved in 2016. This reduction of 43 kWh per person is coupled with a more marked decline in low-carbon electricity output, which stood at 301 kWh per person in 2023, sharply down from its peak of 579 kWh per person in 2011, reflecting a decrease of 279 kWh per person. Such numbers indicate a stagnation in growth, especially in the clean electricity sector, an area critical for achieving environmental goals and supporting sustainable economic development.
Suggestions
To resolve this, Dominica can look towards international successes in low-carbon electricity generation to chart its course forward. By investing in nuclear energy, similar to countries like France and Ukraine, where nuclear provides over half of their electricity, Dominica could significantly bolster its clean energy capacity. Additionally, the regions that have effectively harnessed solar energy, such as Nevada and California, with solar making up close to a third of their electricity, offer a blueprint for integrating solar power into Dominica’s energy mix. By adopting these models, Dominica could dramatically increase its low-carbon electricity generation, providing a clean, sustainable energy future while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Dominica shows a lack of diversification and growth, especially evident in the consistent contribution from hydropower. From 2001 to 2020, there was no change in hydropower electricity generation, suggesting minimal investment or development in enhancing Dominica's low-carbon electricity capabilities. This unchanged state over two decades underscores the need for strategic planning and investment in clean energy sources, such as solar and nuclear, to ensure a robust low-carbon electricity generation infrastructure. Such initiatives would be crucial to meet future demands and environmental commitments, marking a necessary departure from a history of stagnation.
