Electricity in Guam in 2021

In 2021, the majority of Guam's energy consumption was sourced from fossil fuels, making up a staggering 95.6% of the total. This heavy reliance on fossil fuels has placed Guam squarely in the global challenge to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change. At the same time, this data leans towards a discouraging end, as the latest figures show that only 4.4% of Guam's electricity is sourced from low-carbon energy, specifically solar energy. This data underscores the urgent need for Guam to shift towards cleaner, sustainable energy sources.

Suggestions

Guam can look to the successes of other countries in increasing their low-carbon electricity generation for guidance. One of the outstanding countries is France, who has managed to generate a whopping 66% of their electricity from nuclear energy. Similarly, Denmark, multiple times larger than Guam, generates 59% of its electricity from wind energy. Other notable examples include Slovakia, Ukraine, and Switzerland, each sourcing over half of their electricity from nuclear energy. Although Guam's geographical and economic conditions differ greatly from these countries, the data reflects that diversification, investment, robust policies, and public acceptance are key to increasing low-carbon electricity.

History

Looking at the history of Guam's green energy transition, it's clear that the movement has only recently taken root. The introduction of solar energy to Guam's power grid is only a recent phenomenon, with data charting back to 2015 showing zero input from solar energy. The figures remain nominal all from 2015 through 2021, indicating that Guam's journey to low-carbon electricity generation has largely been stagnant. This doesn't mean failure, but it does reflect a sense of urgency to learn from successful countries in diverse and sustainable energy sources and take concerted action towards a green energy transition. The path towards green energy is more than an environmental obligation; it's an economic and societal investment towards a sustainable future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources