As of 2022, the state of electricity consumption in St. Pierre & Miquelon is deeply reliant on fossil-based sources. The entirety of the electricity consumed in this French overseas territory comes from fossil fuels, with low-carbon alternatives currently playing no role in their energy mix. This dependence on fossil fuels is concerning due to the detrimental impacts on climate change and air pollution. There is a significant opportunity for St. Pierre & Miquelon to transform its energy profile and focus on clean energy sources, aligning with global trends toward sustainable energy practices.

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Is Electricity Growing in St. Pierre & Miquelon?

The electricity consumption pattern in St. Pierre & Miquelon has shown minimal growth over the last year. In 2022, the total electricity consumed per person was 8,735 kWh, a modest increase of about 50 kWh compared to the previous year, 2021. This slight growth in electricity consumption indicates a slow trend in potential energy demand, possibly attributed to developments in residential and industrial sectors. However, the low-carbon electricity generation has not changed since the year 2000, remaining at zero kWh per person. The stagnation in low-carbon energy utilization is striking and reflects a need for policy and infrastructure adjustments to foster sustainable growth and meet emerging energy demands.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, St. Pierre & Miquelon can look to regions that have successfully transitioned to cleaner energy. For example, France and Slovakia have attained high levels of electricity from nuclear energy, contributing more than 65% to their power needs. Similarly, Denmark and several U.S. states like Iowa and South Dakota have established significant shares of wind energy, around 60%. Incorporating solar energy, as seen in Nevada and California, could also be beneficial, particularly given the advancement and decreasing costs of solar technology. These examples prove that with an effective strategy and commitment to clean energy, St. Pierre & Miquelon can enhance its sustainability and independence in electricity generation.

History

Historically, St. Pierre & Miquelon has not seen fluctuations in its low-carbon electricity generation, which has regrettably remained stagnant at zero for decades. Despite this, the current global emphasis on transitioning to clean energy offers a strong incentive for St. Pierre & Miquelon to re-evaluate and revitalize its electricity system. By developing infrastructure for nuclear and solar energy and drawing on lessons from regions with high clean energy shares, St. Pierre & Miquelon can develop a proactive stance in reducing its carbon footprint and fully leveraging the advantages of sustainable electricity generation.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade