Electricity in Haiti in 2022

In 2022, electricity consumption in Haiti was alarmingly low compared to the global average. With almost all of Haiti's electricity coming from fossil fuels and close to none from low-carbon sources like nuclear, wind, and solar, the country’s electricity infrastructure remains underdeveloped. The overall electricity generation per person is significantly below the global average of 3606 watts per person. Such low levels of electricity generation can lead to limited access to reliable power, impacting vital sectors such as healthcare, education, and industry. This contributes to economic challenges and hampers the nation’s development efforts. Furthermore, relying primarily on fossil fuels exacerbates environmental and health issues, including air pollution and climate change, which further strain the country's resources.

Suggestions

To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Haiti can look towards countries that have successfully integrated clean energy into their grids. For instance, Brazil and India have achieved significant progress in wind and solar energy, respectively, which are both abundant natural resources in Haiti. Emulating these countries, Haiti can invest in wind and solar technology to harness its geographical advantages. Additionally, the integration of nuclear energy can provide a stable and reliable electricity supply, as demonstrated by countries like France and South Korea, which have established large shares of nuclear power in their electricity mix. Such diversification can ensure Haiti secures a sustainable and resilient energy future.

History

Historically, Haiti's low-carbon electricity generation has been primarily reliant on hydroelectric power, though progress has been sluggish and intermittent. In the 1970s and 1980s, the country saw minimal increments with sporadic years of stagnation, indicating little advancement in establishing a robust hydroelectric network. The situation remained largely unchanged through the late 20th century and into the 21st, with some variations from the late 2000s to the late 2010s. These fluctuations, marked by occasional increases and decreases, reflect a lack of consistent policy or investment in sustainable energy infrastructure. Moving forward, a more strategic and robust investment in low-carbon sources is essential, not only to increase generation but also to shield the population from the volatility of fossil fuel markets. This presence of slight and inconsistent advancements in hydroelectric power underscores the need for a diversified approach to sustainable energy in Haiti.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources