In 2023, the electricity consumption in St. Vincent & Grenadines remains predominantly reliant on fossil energy, which makes up over 85% of the electricity generation. The remaining fraction, a little more than 10%, comes exclusively from hydropower, which classifies it as low-carbon or clean energy. This reliance on hydropower for their clean energy sources indicates that the country has room to diversify its low-carbon electricity portfolio, potentially exploring other green energy methods like solar and nuclear. This skew towards fossil fuels is worrying not just due to their contribution to climate change and air pollution, but also due to the potential instability in energy security and independence, should fossil fuel imports waver in the future.

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

Is Electricity Growing in St. Vincent & Grenadines?

When examining the trend in electricity consumption in St. Vincent & Grenadines, it appears that consumption has been on a decline. The latest data from 2023 shows an electricity consumption of nearly 1500 kWh per person, which is significantly less than the historic peak of almost 2000 kWh per person recorded in 2020. There is also a noticeable drop in low-carbon electricity generation, from a peak of approximately 260 kWh per person back in 2000 to just under 200 kWh per person in 2023. This regression suggests a challenge in not only growing overall electricity consumption but advancing the share of clean electricity, which could be key to sustainable development and reduction of environmental impact as the demands for electricity rise with technological advancements.

Suggestions

To promote a shift towards low-carbon electricity generation, St. Vincent & Grenadines could take inspiration from regions that have successfully integrated solar and nuclear power into their energy mix. Countries such as France and Slovakia generate more than half of their electricity from nuclear power, showcasing the potential of nuclear as a reliable and substantial green energy source. Additionally, several countries and states have embraced solar energy; for example, Lebanon and Nevada generate about 30% of their electricity from solar. These examples highlight the potential for St. Vincent & Grenadines to expand into solar energy, supported by the island's conducive climate for solar power generation, while also considering strategic investments into nuclear energy for a significant clean energy boost.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in St. Vincent & Grenadines shows a stagnation in growth. From the early 2000s onwards, hydropower— the sole low-carbon energy source—has not experienced any change in its contribution to the electricity mix. This stagnant trend underscores the urgent need for diversification and growth in the clean energy sector, particularly through embracing solar and nuclear options. Such clean energy diversification could both increase electricity production to meet future demands and contribute positively towards environmental sustainability in St. Vincent & Grenadines.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade