In 2024, Trinidad & Tobago's electricity consumption is overwhelmingly reliant on fossil fuels, with almost all (over 99%) of its electricity generation coming from these sources. The contribution from clean, low-carbon energy sources is close to none, highlighting a significant dependency on fossil energy. This heavy reliance not only raises concerns about climate change but also emphasizes the pressing need for a transition to cleaner energy solutions to mitigate environmental impacts such as air pollution and global warming.

Data sources used on this page include Ember, Energy Institute, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →

Is Electricity Growing in Trinidad & Tobago?

When examining electricity consumption trends in Trinidad & Tobago, it is evident that the country has seen a decrease in electricity usage per person. The latest figures indicate a consumption of 6,477 kWh per person, which is 731 kWh less than the record high in 2015. Similarly, the generation of low-carbon electricity has also declined, with per capita figures dropping from a record of 35 kWh in 1971 to just 5 kWh in 2024. This downturn in both overall and low-carbon electricity generation is concerning for the nation's energy sustainability and growth prospects.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Trinidad & Tobago could benefit from examining successful regions with high low-carbon electricity contributions. Countries like France and Slovakia derive more than half of their electricity from nuclear power, and states like Nevada and California have substantial solar contributions. Emulating these successes, Trinidad & Tobago should prioritize the development of solar infrastructure, given its advantageous geographic location, and explore potential investments in nuclear energy to ensure a sustainable and clean energy mix. Learning from countries that effectively integrate wind energy, such as Denmark and Uruguay, could also offer insights into diversifying the nation's clean energy portfolio.

History

Historically, the data shows that low-carbon electricity in Trinidad & Tobago has experienced minimal activity and no significant development over several decades. From the early 1990s through the 2020s, both biofuels and solar have maintained a generation change close to zero. This lack of significant progress underscores the importance of re-strategizing to enhance clean energy infrastructure. With the growing need for sustainable electricity, building robust solar and nuclear capabilities and reducing dependence on fossil fuels should be prioritized for the country's energy future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade