Electricity in Puerto Rico in 2025
In Puerto Rico, the dominance of fossil fuels in electricity generation is overwhelmingly evident. More than half of the electricity, about 44%, is derived from gas, and nearly a fifth, approximately 17%, is generated using coal. This leaves Puerto Rico reliant on fossil fuels for almost 97% of its electricity, with low-carbon sources making up a meager 2.7%. Solar energy accounts for about 1.5% and wind energy provides just over 1%, highlighting the urgent need for a significant shift towards cleaner energy sources to reduce the environmental and health impacts associated with fossil fuel use.
Is Electricity Growing in Puerto Rico?
Electricity consumption in Puerto Rico presents a concerning trend, as the numbers reveal a decline. The current per capita consumption stands at approximately 4958 kWh, which marks a substantial decrease from the 2006 high of 6613 kWh per person. This decline of 1655 kWh/person could be viewed as a missed opportunity for economic and technological growth. Furthermore, low-carbon electricity generation has also seen a significant drop, from a record 338 kWh/person in 2024 to just 134 kWh/person, signifying a decrease of 204 kWh/person. The reduction of low-carbon electricity generation is particularly alarming given the global emphasis on sustainable development and clean energy expansion.
Suggestions
To effectively increase low-carbon electricity generation, Puerto Rico could learn from other regions that are leading the way in clean energy. Taking notes from countries like Sweden, which have successfully integrated wind power into their electricity grids, would be valuable. Additionally, adopting strategies from states like California and Nevada, which excel in solar electricity generation, could help Puerto Rico harness its abundant sunshine more effectively. Furthermore, considering the successful implementation of nuclear energy in countries like France, which generates 67% of its electricity from nuclear power, could provide a roadmap for Puerto Rico to develop its nuclear capacity as a stable and robust green energy source. Prioritizing these proven low-carbon strategies will be critical in ensuring a sustainable and clean electricity future for Puerto Rico.
History
The historical landscape of low-carbon electricity in Puerto Rico has seen limited growth. In the 1980s and 1990s, hydroelectric power experienced some fluctuations, with minor increases and occasional decreases, such as the two decreases in 1981 and 1990. Wind energy made its mark around 2013, yet displayed inconsistencies, with a notable growth of 0.2 TWh in that year and only minor contributions in the subsequent years. There was perhaps more promise in solar electricity, which showed a gradual rise starting in 2018 and continuing modestly until 2022. However, 2025 was marked by a concerning decline of 0.6 TWh in solar electricity generation. This history underscores an urgent need for a strategic and robust policy that significantly expands low-carbon electricity, drawing from both domestic potential and international success stories. The goal must be to reverse the stagnation and drives robust growth in clean electricity, pivotal for combating climate challenges and spurring socioeconomic growth in the 21st century.
