Electricity in Jamaica in 2022
In 2022, electricity consumption in Jamaica was primarily dominated by fossil fuels, which accounted for more than 87% of the total electricity generated. Of this, over half came from gas. Meanwhile, low-carbon or clean energy sources made up almost 13% of the total electricity generation. Within this cleaner energy segment, wind energy accounted for around 6%, while solar and hydropower contributed nearly 3% and just under 3%, respectively. Biofuels also played a minor role, making up a little over 1% of the electricity generation. This points to a heavy reliance on fossil fuels with only a small portion of electricity being produced through low-carbon methods, which Jamaica could endeavor to increase for a more sustainable energy future.
Is Electricity Growing in Jamaica?
Looking at the trend of electricity consumption per person, there is a noticeable decline. The latest figures from 2022 indicate that electricity consumption was 1581 kWh per person, which is a significant drop from the record high of 2780 kWh per person in 2005, marking a decrease of 1199 kWh per person. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation is also seeing a downward trajectory. In 2022, low-carbon electricity generation was 204 kWh per person, slightly below the historic peak of 229 kWh per person in 1983. This decline in both overall and low-carbon electricity consumption is concerning, especially in a world moving towards electrification and cleaner energy solutions.
Suggestions
To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Jamaica could look to successful regions worldwide as examples. Nations like France and Slovakia demonstrate the potential of nuclear energy, with nuclear power accounting for more than 60% of their electricity generation. Similarly, Iowa and South Dakota offer insights into the successful deployment of wind energy, with these states harnessing wind for over 59% of their electricity needs. Jamaica could consider expanding its solar capacity much like Lebanon and Chile, who generate 31% and 22% from solar, respectively. By combining these strategies, Jamaica can reduce its dependency on fossil fuels and progress towards a cleaner energy system, while potentially exploring the viability of nuclear energy, an option proven to offer steady, low-carbon electricity.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Jamaica shows varied developments over the years. In the 1970s, the introduction of biofuels appeared promising, especially with a positive spike in 1973, only to face fluctuations in the following decades, with significant declines in the early 1980s. The early 1990s and 2000s saw minor increases, but the numbers remained insufficient for sustainable growth in clean energy. The 21st century brought some progress with wind energy witnessing a positive shift starting from 2011 and modest growth in the mid-2010s. However, consistent advancements have been limited, suggesting a need for comprehensive and strategic enhancement of low-carbon energy to ensure a sustainable and resilient electricity future for Jamaica.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.