Electricity in U.S. Virgin Islands in 2021

Based on the 2021 data, fossil fuels are the dominant source of electricity in the U.S. Virgin Islands, accounting for a staggering 97%. In stark contrast, the contribution of low-carbon energy to the electricity generation mix is almost non-existent, constituting just under 3%. Of this small fraction, all low-carbon energy is generated through solar power.

Suggestions

To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, the U.S. Virgin Islands can initiate a strategic shift towards the more significant adoption of nuclear and wind energy, alongside its current solar capacity. Looking to successful countries for inspiration, France has harnessed nuclear energy to generate 66% of its electricity, while Denmark relies on wind power for 59% of its electricity production. The U.S. Virgin Islands' climatic and geographical conditions may align more closely with nations such as Cape Verde and Vanuatu, where wind and solar energies contributes 13% and 14% to the electricity mix, respectively. These examples delineate feasible paths towards a higher reliance on low-carbon energy, showcasing the successful integration of clean energy into diverse environments.

History

Historically, the utilization of low-carbon energy through solar power in the U.S. Virgin Islands has been consistently low, with no measurable change in generation from 2014 to 2021. This stagnant trend signifies that the territory's efforts towards climate-friendly electricity generation have not borne fruit over this time period. The data strongly suggests stagnation in diversifying the energy mix and a chronic dependency on fossil fuels. Given the urgency of climate change challenges and the demonstrated successes of other countries, there is a critical need for the U.S. Virgin Islands to ramp up its transition towards clean, sustainable electricity sources like nuclear, wind, and solar power.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources