Trinidad & Tobago relies almost entirely on fossil fuels for its electricity, with close to 100% of its electricity being generated from fossil energy sources. This highlights a significant opportunity for the country to diversify its energy mix by incorporating more low-carbon sources like solar and nuclear energy. Currently, the amount of electricity generated from low-carbon sources is statistically close to none, emphasizing the country's heavy dependency on fossil fuels. This dependency not only contributes to climate change and air pollution but also positions Trinidad & Tobago at a disadvantage in terms of energy sustainability and security.

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

Is Electricity Growing in Trinidad & Tobago?

There are clear signs of a decline in electricity consumption in Trinidad & Tobago. The most recent figures show that the total electricity consumption is 6477 kWh per person, which is a decrease from the 2015 record of 7207 kWh per person. This represents a substantial drop of 731 kWh per person compared to the historic high. Furthermore, the situation is even more concerning for low-carbon electricity generation, which has fallen to just 5 kWh per person, down from a previous high of 35 kWh per person in 1971. This decline is alarming, and it calls for immediate action to reverse these trends and increase the generation and use of clean energy.

Suggestions

To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Trinidad & Tobago can look to the successful examples of regions that have maximized solar and nuclear energy. France leads in nuclear energy, generating 70% of its electricity via nuclear power, while Nevada and California harness a significant proportion from solar, at 33% and 29% respectively. Denmark provides a successful model in wind power, with 59% of its electricity coming from this clean source. By adopting policies that encourage the development of solar and nuclear infrastructures, Trinidad & Tobago can mitigate its reliance on fossil fuels and begin the transition towards more sustainable energy sources.

History

Over the past decades, Trinidad & Tobago's contribution to low-carbon electricity saw periods of stagnancy. The records depict no change from biofuels generation between 1991 and 2009, along with negligible movements in solar energy in recent years, specifically in 2001, 2019, and 2024. These patterns suggest a significant missed opportunity for expansion in these clean sectors. The consistent absence of a growth strategy for sustainable energy sources suggests an urgent need for policy shifts and investment to support clean energy projects. Embracing solar and nuclear energy should be a priority to secure a sustainable and resilient electricity supply for the future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade