In 2025, the electricity consumption in Puerto Rico heavily relies on fossil fuels, accounting for over 97% of its total electricity generation. The breakdown of this consumption reveals that gas represents a significant portion, with more than 43% of electricity generated from this source, while coal contributes almost 17%. In stark contrast, low-carbon energy sources are barely utilized, contributing just around 2.7% to the electricity mix. Solar and wind energy constitute the entirety of this clean electricity fraction, with solar making up nearly 1.5% and wind slightly over 1%. This tremendous reliance on fossil fuels poses significant challenges, including environmental concerns associated with climate change and air pollution. Consequently, there is a critical need for Puerto Rico to increase its share of low-carbon energy to promote a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.

Data sources used on this page include EIA and Ember. More about data sources →

Is Electricity Growing in Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico’s electricity consumption per person has been in decline, with the latest figure in 2025 standing at about 4958 kWh per person. This represents a significant drop from the previous record of 6613 kWh per person recorded back in 2006, marking a decrease of 1655 kWh per person. Similarly, the share of low-carbon electricity generation has also seen a decrease. The current low-carbon generation is at 134 kWh per person, a reduction of 204 kWh per person from its high in 2024, when it stood at 338 kWh per person. This downturn in both general and low-carbon electricity consumption is concerning, especially in an era where increasing electricity demand is necessary to support electrification and advancements in technology, such as artificial intelligence, which could drive substantial economic growth and improve living standards.

Suggestions

To significantly boost its low-carbon electricity capacity, Puerto Rico can draw valuable insights from regions that have successfully harnessed clean energy types. For example, France and Slovakia generate an impressive 67% and 66% of their electricity from nuclear energy, respectively. These models demonstrate the potential of nuclear power as a robust foundation for a sustainable electricity supply. Additionally, regions like North Macedonia showcase solar energy's potential, with nearly half of their electricity generated from solar resources. Puerto Rico, with its sunny climate, is well-positioned to benefit from expanding solar infrastructure. By focusing on both solar and nuclear energy, Puerto Rico can substantially enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, thus reducing its dependence on fossil fuels and fostering a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.

History

Historically, Puerto Rico's journey with low-carbon electricity generation paints a picture of fluctuating progress. The 1980s saw modest activity in hydroelectric generation, with slight increases and decreases. The 2010s marked significant strides as wind energy witnessed a notable increase in 2013, followed by solar energy's steady growth from 2018 onwards. However, the very recent decline in solar energy generation in 2025 highlights an area for immediate concern and action. Puerto Rico must revitalise its commitment to enhancing its low-carbon electricity infrastructure, learning from the recent past and ensuring consistent progress in its clean energy transition. Only by embracing these developments can Puerto Rico effectively navigate the evolving landscape of electricity consumption and meet future demands with resilience and sustainability.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade