Electricity in Haiti in 2021

In 2021, the state of electricity consumption in Haiti was notably low compared to the global average, with quite a limited mix of energy sources. The nation primarily relied on fossil energy, rather than low-carbon energy solutions. Bear in mind the global average of electricity usage sits at 410 watts per person, offering some perspective on how low Haiti's levels are. This lack of energy accessibility may significantly affect many aspects of societal wellbeing - from hindering economic development, as manufacturing industries struggle to operate at full capacity, to affecting education as students contend with lack of lighting for evening studies. It may also impact health outcomes as many essential health services need reliable electricity.

Suggestions

To increase their low-carbon electricity generation, Haiti can take cues from nations that are utilizing efficient energy strategies. Consider the People's Republic of China and the United States – both nations have notably harnessed wind and nuclear energy to generate more than half a million TWh of electricity each. As a laid-back, sunshine-rich Caribbean country, Haiti might consider solar energy advancements like those undertaken by China, India, and the United States, whose efforts in the solar sector dwarf Haiti's current generation. Although nuclear energy might face challenges given Haiti's size and resources, it's worth examining the nuclear strategies of relatively small nations such as Sweden and South Korea. Brazil's balanced efforts towards wind, solar, and nuclear serve as another potential model for Haiti.

History

Regarding historical trends in Haiti's electricity generation, hydroelectricity has been the primary low-carbon energy source for quite some time. From the 1970s to the 2020s, hydroelectricity saw modest growth, albeit punctuated by periods of decline. The first boost in hydroelectricity occurred in 1972, with a subsequent increase in 1986 and 1988. However, the early 1990s saw a slight decrease in hydroelectricity generation. Though the next decade was more stable, there were multiple minor reductions in the late 2000s and mid-2010s, suggesting mixed success in Haiti's reliance on hydroelectric power. The absence of growth in other low-carbon sources such as solar, wind, or nuclear suggests a lack of diversified, sustainable energy strategies in the past. This history, coupled with the potential for low-carbon generation outlined above, underlines the necessity for Haiti to pursue diverse clean energy options going forward.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources