In 2023, the U.S. Virgin Islands displayed an overwhelming reliance on fossil fuels for electricity, with fossil energy sources comprising more than 97% of the total electricity generation. This leaves a minimal share, just under 3%, for low-carbon energy, which is entirely sourced from solar power. This heavy dependence on fossil fuels highlights a concerning issue, as fossil fuels not only contribute significantly to climate change but also pollute the air, adversely affecting public health and the environment. It is critical for the U.S. Virgin Islands to transition towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy sources to ensure a cleaner and more resilient energy future.

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

Is Electricity Growing in U.S. Virgin Islands?

Over the years, the electricity consumption in the U.S. Virgin Islands has declined. In 2023, electricity consumption per person stood at 7,821 kWh, which is significantly lower than the peak consumption of 9,740 kWh per person recorded in 2004. This decrease underscores a drop of about 1,919 kWh per person compared to the historic peak. Meanwhile, there has been a modest increase in low-carbon electricity generation, with solar energy contributing 233 kWh per person in 2023, slightly up from the previous record of 231 kWh per person in 2022. Although this small increase in low-carbon electricity is a positive step, the overall trend of declining total electricity consumption, which could point to a stagnant or struggling economy or energy sector, is worrisome.

Suggestions

To boost low-carbon electricity generation, the U.S. Virgin Islands can draw valuable lessons from regions that have successfully integrated higher proportions of clean energy sources. For instance, states like California and Nevada have made significant strides in solar power, generating over 20% and 30% of their electricity respectively from this low-carbon source. On the other hand, countries like France and regions like New Hampshire illustrate the potential of nuclear power, with significant shares of over 50% of electricity coming from nuclear energy. By adopting similar strategies and policies that have propelled these regions, such as investment incentives for solar infrastructure or exploring the feasibility of introducing nuclear technology, the U.S. Virgin Islands can set themselves on a path to a cleaner and more diversified energy mix.

History

Historically, low-carbon electricity in the U.S. Virgin Islands has seen a period of stagnation. Since 2014, there has been no growth in solar electricity generation, with the output remaining constant each year up to 2023. This lack of development over nearly a decade is troubling, as it suggests there has been little to no strategic initiative or investment directed towards expanding solar energy capacity—an area with considerable potential for an island with abundant sunshine. By focusing on breaking this stagnation through targeted efforts towards enhancing solar infrastructure and considering low-carbon options like nuclear, the U.S. Virgin Islands can embark on a transformation to a more sustainable electricity system.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade