In 2023, electricity consumption in St. Vincent & Grenadines is heavily reliant on fossil fuels, which make up more than 85% of the total electricity generation. The remaining portion is supplied by hydropower, a low-carbon source, contributing to a modest 13% of the total electricity consumption. This reliance on fossil fuels signifies a pressing need for the country to pursue a cleaner and more sustainable energy path. Transitioning towards low-carbon energy sources such as solar or nuclear can help mitigate the impacts of fossil fuel consumption, including climate change and air pollution.

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

Is Electricity Growing in St. Vincent & Grenadines?

Electricity consumption per person has seen a slight decrease in recent years. In 2023, the consumption stood at approximately 1481 kWh per person, which reflects a minor decline of about 2% compared to the historic peak in 2016. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation per capita has dipped significantly from its peak in 2012, dropping from 276 kWh to 197 kWh per person. This 29% reduction highlights an alarming trend for the country's sustainable energy aspirations. This stagnation indicates a need for vigorous efforts to enhance clean electricity generation, which is vital for meeting the increasing demand for electricity in the evolving energy landscape.

Suggestions

To ramp up clean electricity generation, St. Vincent & Grenadines can learn from various regions that have integrated solar and nuclear energy effectively. For instance, states like Nevada and California generate approximately 30% of their electricity from solar energy, showcasing the potential of solar in sunny regions. Similarly, European countries like France and Slovakia generate a substantial portion, over 65%, of their electricity using nuclear power. By adopting solar technologies, suitable for the country's sunny climate, and exploring nuclear options, the country can significantly boost its low-carbon electricity share, paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future.

History

Looking at the recent history, St. Vincent & Grenadines has maintained a steady course with hydropower since the early 2000s, showing no significant changes in electricity generation from this source. This consistent output from hydropower indicates a stable but limited approach to clean energy. With advancements in technology and a global shift towards diverse energy portfolios, there is an undeniable opportunity for the country to break away from its prolonged dependency on a single low-carbon source. Investing in a mix of solar and nuclear energy can diversify its energy landscape, enhancing energy security and sustainability in the long run.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade