Electricity in Guyana in 2021

Guyana's electricity consumption for the year 2021 predominantly relied on fossil energy, generating approximately 1.07 TWh of power. This signifies that the country presently lacks significant low-carbon energy infrastructures such as wind, solar, or nuclear power. Compared to the global average electricity consumption of 410 watts per person, Guyana's figures are rather less impressive, revealing an intrinsic dependency on fossil fuels. The potential implications of such low levels of electricity generation may include a higher carbon footprint, reliance on potentially unstable fossil fuel markets, and the missed economic and environmental benefits provided by low-carbon energy sources.

Suggestions

Although lagging behind in the low-carbon energy sector, Guyana can look to the likes of Brazil and India for inspiration. Turning to wind energy, like Brazil's 94 TWh generation, could be a potential solution, especially as Guyana shares a similar climate and geographical features. Furthermore, India's solar energy generation of 120 TWh also stands as a viable benchmark. This implies that with suitable investments and technology, Guyana could increase its low-carbon electricity generation by specifically focusing on harnessing its natural capabilities for wind and solar energy.

History

Examining the history of low-carbon electricity in Guyana, in the last two decades of the 21st century, it's pretty evident that the country has relied predominantly on biofuels, with a rather negligible change in electricity generation over the years. From 2000 onwards, with occasional, slight increases in 2000 and 2009, biofuel's contribution to electricity generation has ranged close to none. Solar power only made an appearance in Guyana's electricity mix in 2018, but with no recorded increases in generation. All this data goes to show how Guyana has made minimal strides in low-carbon electricity generation. A departure from the past, therefore, would involve actively integrating solar, wind, and potentially nuclear energy into the nation's energy landscape.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources