Electricity in Suriname in 2022

In Suriname, the current state of electricity consumption is nearly balanced between fossil fuels and low-carbon energy. Fossil fuels account for a slight majority of electricity generation, with more than half of the nation's electricity derived from these sources at about 52%. Low-carbon electricity contributes significantly as well, representing 48% of the total, with almost all of this share coming from hydropower, which provides about 47% of Suriname's electricity. This mix indicates that Suriname is already making strides toward integrating clean energy solutions into its electricity grid, though fossil fuels still maintain a marginal lead.

Suggestions

To increase the share of low-carbon electricity, Suriname can look toward global examples for guidance. Countries such as Uruguay have achieved impressive results with wind energy, generating 36% of their electricity from this clean source. By investing in wind power, Suriname could not only diversify its low-carbon electricity sources but also capitalize on potential geographical and meteorological advantages. Additionally, considering nuclear energy as an option could be transformative, much like in France and Slovakia, where nuclear power constitutes a major part of their low-carbon electricity generation. Emulating these strategies could help Suriname transition more effectively toward a greener electricity system, reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change impacts.

History

Examining Suriname's historical trends in low-carbon electricity generation, particularly hydropower, reveals a fluctuating yet positive trajectory over the decades. In the early 1980s, there was slight instability, with minor decreases and increases in hydroelectric output. From 1989 onward, there have been periods of both growth and decline, with occasional increases like in 1990 and significant growth in the recent past, such as the 0.3 TWh increase in 2010. Overall, these trends suggest that while hydropower has faced some challenges, it continues to be a vital part of Suriname's electricity mix, laying a foundation that could be bolstered by introducing additional low-carbon technologies. This historical context underscores the potential for consistent advancement in Suriname's low-carbon electricity infrastructure.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources