As of 2022, the electricity consumption in St. Pierre & Miquelon is entirely reliant on fossil fuels, with 100% of the electricity generated from these sources. This heavy dependence on fossil fuels results in significant greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact, including air pollution and contributing to climate change. With no current contribution from low-carbon energy sources like nuclear, wind, or solar, there is a pressing need for the region to transition towards more sustainable and clean energy solutions.
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, St. Pierre & Miquelon can look to countries with successful clean energy models. France, for instance, generates more than two-thirds of its electricity from nuclear power, showcasing the potential for a high nuclear energy mix. Additionally, Denmark produces over half of its electricity from wind energy, demonstrating the feasibility of wind power even in regions with smaller land areas. St. Pierre & Miquelon, with its island geography, could also benefit from exploring offshore wind generation, similar to Denmark. Learning from these examples, St. Pierre & Miquelon could consider investing in nuclear power plants and take advantage of its geographical features to incorporate wind energy, ultimately reducing its carbon footprint and enhancing energy independence.
The history of low-carbon electricity generation in St. Pierre & Miquelon lacks significant milestones, as evidenced by the provided data. This indicates that there have historically been minimal investments or changes toward integrating low-carbon technologies. The absence of any increase in electricity from sources like nuclear, wind, or solar points to a missed opportunity for developing a sustainable energy infrastructure. Unlocking the potential for future clean energy generation might involve drawing lessons from successful countries, initiating infrastructure development, and pivoting towards incorporating nuclear and wind power as viable alternatives. By embracing this transition, St. Pierre & Miquelon can significantly alter its energy landscape in the coming years.