Electricity in Dominica in 2023

In 2023, Dominica's electricity consumption is largely driven by fossil energy, accounting for almost nine-tenths of the total electricity production. This means that the island primarily relies on fuel sources such as oil or gas to meet its electricity demands. In contrast, low-carbon energy sources contribute just above a tenth to Dominica's electricity demand, with hydropower being the sole representative in this category. The dependence on fossil fuels results in significant greenhouse gas emissions, which can exacerbate climate change and environmental degradation. Thus, there is a pressing need for Dominica to diversify its energy sources and enhance its reliance on clean energy to create a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly energy landscape.

Suggestions

For Dominica to increase its proportion of low-carbon electricity generation, looking at the successes of similar countries can be insightful, particularly those that have effectively integrated wind and solar power into their energy mix. For instance, Uruguay generates close to a third of its electricity from wind power, showcasing the potential of using wind energy as a substantial, clean source. Furthermore, countries such as Lebanon and Chile have made considerable strides in utilizing solar power, producing about a third and a fifth of their electricity from solar sources, respectively. Taking cues from these countries, Dominica could invest in wind and solar technologies, given its geographical advantages, to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels substantially. Additionally, examining the strategies of countries with substantial nuclear power use could open avenues for exploring nuclear energy as a reliable and low-carbon electricity option.

History

Looking back at Dominica's history of low-carbon electricity generation, the period from 2001 to 2020 has seen a stagnation with no recorded growth in hydroelectricity generation. Throughout these two decades, the country neither increased its hydropower capacity nor explored additional low-carbon energy sources to diversify its clean energy portfolio. This period of inertia highlights a critical need for strategic planning and investment to enhance the development of low-carbon electricity. The future calls for actionable policies and infrastructure development in alternative clean energy technologies that can propel Dominica towards achieving a sustainable and resilient electricity system.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources