Electricity in Gibraltar in 2020
Gibraltar's electricity consumption for the year 2020 relied entirely on fossil fuels, contributing to its 100% total energy consumption. The entirety of Gibraltar's electricity therefore comes from sources such as oil, gas, and coal. This small British Overseas Territory in Southern Europe does not import or export any electricity from/off to other countries or regions, ensuring that all of its electricity consumption is generated domestically.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Gibraltar could take cues from other small countries or territories that have successfully adopted clean energy solutions. Given its Mediterranean climate and favourable wind conditions, Gibraltar could look to countries like Denmark and Ireland, where wind energy constitutes 52% and 33% of electricity generation respectively. Moreover, despite its small territory, optimizing wind and solar energy generation could provide Gibraltar with stable, green energy sources. Furthermore, even though Gibraltar may not have the land resources for large-scale nuclear facilities, advancements in small modular reactors (SMRs) could provide a viable nuclear energy option. SMRs have been adopted in countries such as Belgium and Slovenia, where nuclear energy provides 47% and 38% of their electricity.
History
Unfortunately, the history of low-carbon electricity in Gibraltar does not exist, as their electricity generation has come exclusively from fossil fuels over the years. This dependence on fossil fuels belies the potential for low-carbon energy sources, such as wind, solar, and potentially even nuclear energy to form a significant part of Gibraltar's energy mix. The shift towards cleaner, low-carbon energy sources could not only help Gibraltar mitigate its carbon footprint but could also insulate it from the volatility of fossil fuel markets - a strategic advantage for this small, isolated territory. As we move into the future, the adoption and promotion of low-carbon, sustainable energy sources are imperative for Gibraltar's energy security and environmental sustainability.