In Haiti, the state of electricity consumption is significantly below the global average. As of 2022, the total electricity consumption is about 88 kWh per person, which is close to none when compared to the global average of 3781 kWh per person. Within this figure, low-carbon energy sources contribute 17 kWh per person—a small fraction of the total. This substantial disparity indicates a heavy reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation, which is concerning due to the associated negative impacts such as pollution and climate change. The low levels of electricity generation in Haiti can lead to constraints on economic growth and development, limit access to modern conveniences, and impede improvements in living standards. Consequently, there is an urgent need for expanded electricity generation, particularly from low-carbon sources to provide reliable, sustainable, and clean energy to the population.
Is Electricity Growing in Haiti?
Assessing the question of whether electricity generation is growing in Haiti, the latest data indicate a disappointing trend. The electricity consumption per person in 2022 was 88 kWh, which represents a decrease from the record high of 109 kWh per person seen in 2012. This decline of 21 kWh is a cause for concern, signifying a backward movement in development efforts. More critically, low-carbon electricity generation has seen a significant decrease from its peak of 69 kWh per person in 1990, down to 17 kWh in 2022, a reduction of 53 kWh. This regression suggests challenges in sustaining and enhancing clean energy infrastructure over the years, which requires immediate attention and action to reverse the trend.
Suggestions
To bolster Haiti's low-carbon electricity generation, lessons can be drawn from nations and regions that have succeeded in this area. For instance, leveraging solar energy, as exemplified by India with its 154 TWh solar output, can be exceptionally relevant due to Haiti’s climate and geographical advantages. Additionally, embracing nuclear energy, as seen in France with its 363 TWh of nuclear electricity or in U.S. states like Illinois and Texas, which produce 99 TWh and 40 TWh, respectively, is critical for establishing a stable and substantial clean energy base. By learning from and adapting similar technological advancements and policies, Haiti can significantly enhance its clean energy footprint, contributing positively to both global climate goals and local economic resilience.
History
Examining the historical trajectory of low-carbon electricity in Haiti reveals a pattern of modest growth and intermittent regression. Starting in the early 1970s, with small incremental increases in hydroelectricity, progress continued at a subdued pace. Notably, during the early 1990s, marginal growth occurred, but this was followed by declines and stagnations, such as in the mid-1990s and early 2000s, reflecting challenges in maintaining consistent advancement. Sporadic increases in subsequent years, like in 2017 and 2018, were offset by similar setbacks. Recently, in 2022, a minor positive increment was observed, yet the overall trajectory has been far from promising. It is crucial to adopt a strategic approach aligned with successful international practices in nuclear and solar energy generation to ensure that Haiti's future low-carbon electricity trajectory can sustain consistent and meaningful growth.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.