Electricity in St. Vincent & Grenadines in 2022

In 2022, St. Vincent & Grenadines relied almost entirely on hydroelectric power for its electricity needs, generating zero growth since at least 2001. This means that the country’s electricity consumption is dominated by one low-carbon source, hydro energy. The total electricity consumption per capita is much lower than the global average of 432 watts per person. This limited electricity generation can hinder economic development, access to modern amenities, and the overall quality of life for residents. Additionally, dependency on a single source like hydropower can leave the country vulnerable to changes in water availability.

Suggestions

To boost low-carbon electricity generation, St. Vincent & Grenadines should consider diversifying its energy mix by integrating more wind and solar power. Countries like Brazil have been successful in generating considerable amounts of electricity from wind, producing 96 TWh, while India excels in solar energy production with 113 TWh. Smaller nations can follow suit by investing in localized solar farms and wind turbines. Additionally, countries like France and the United States, which have robust nuclear energy programs generating 336 TWh and 775 TWh respectively, demonstrate that nuclear power can provide a stable, high-output solution for energy needs. Although adopting nuclear energy may require significant investment and technological expertise, it represents a critical strategy for achieving long-term energy security and sustainability.

History

Historically, St. Vincent & Grenadines has had a consistent but stagnant reliance on hydroelectric power for its electricity generation, with no changes recorded since 2001. From 2001 to 2020, the country’s hydroelectric output remained unchanged every year, not taking advantage of the advancements in clean energy technologies seen globally. This lack of diversification not only limits potential economic growth but also restricts the country’s ability to mitigate the negative environmental impacts associated with fossil fuel dependence. Embracing newer, scalable technologies like wind, solar, and potentially nuclear energy can significantly elevate the nation’s energy profile and contribute to a cleaner, more resilient energy infrastructure.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources