Electricity in Guam in 2022

In 2022, Guam's electricity consumption was heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with almost 95% of its electricity generated from these sources. This significant dependence on fossil fuels has considerable environmental implications, as burning them releases greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change and air pollution. The island's low-carbon electricity generation is notably small, with just over 5% coming solely from solar power. This means that Guam currently lacks a diverse array of clean energy sources, and the contribution of low-carbon electricity to its overall energy mix is minimal. Transitioning to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly electricity system could help mitigate these environmental impacts.

Suggestions

Guam could look globally for examples of effective strategies to increase its low-carbon electricity generation. Small island nations or countries with similar geographical challenges, like Uruguay, have successfully harnessed wind energy as a significant clean power contributor, with around 36% of their electricity coming from wind. Similarly, countries like Greece have demonstrated success in solar electricity, obtaining almost a quarter of their electricity from solar energy. By investing in wind and solar technologies, Guam could leverage its natural resources to diversify its energy mix and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, expanding nuclear energy, as seen in countries like France and Slovakia, could offer a stable and substantial source of clean electricity, providing reliable energy production alongside environmental benefits.

History

Historically, Guam's journey towards low-carbon electricity has seen little advancement. From 2015 to 2022, there was no recorded increase in solar electricity generation, indicating stagnant development in this area. This lack of progress suggests an opportunity for strategic investments and policies to kick-start clean energy initiatives. By learning from and adopting successful practices from other regions, Guam can propel its transition towards low-carbon electricity, ensuring a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future. This push towards clean energy not only addresses environmental concerns but also fortifies Guam’s energy security and economic resilience.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources