Electricity in U.S. Virgin Islands in 2023
In 2023, electricity consumption in the U.S. Virgin Islands is overwhelmingly reliant on fossil fuels, with more than 97% of their electricity generated from such sources. Low-carbon energy, on the other hand, accounts for only about 3% of the electricity, stemming entirely from solar generation. This heavy dependence on fossil fuels is concerning, as it contributes significantly to climate change and air pollution issues. The relatively minuscule share of clean electricity highlights a pressing need for a shift towards sustainable energy sources to ensure a more environmentally friendly future.
Is Electricity Growing in U.S. Virgin Islands?
Electricity consumption per person in the U.S. Virgin Islands is currently at 7,821 kWh, which marks a decline from the peak of 9,740 kWh per person observed in 2004. This decrease of almost 2,000 kWh per person reflects a significant reduction in electricity use over the past two decades. Despite this drop in overall consumption, there has been a slight increase in low-carbon electricity generation, from 231 kWh per person in 2022 to 233 kWh per person in 2023. Although this growth is tiny, it demonstrates a modest yet positive trend towards increasing clean energy adoption.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, the U.S. Virgin Islands can draw inspiration from successful regions worldwide. Emulating the extensive use of solar energy as seen in Nevada and Lebanon, with shares of 27% and 31% respectively, could boost their solar capacity. Similarly, adopting nuclear power has benefitted countries like France, where it accounts for 68% of the electricity. These examples show the potential benefits of diversifying energy portfolios with a focus on solar and nuclear to achieve a more substantial share of clean electricity. By learning from these regions, the U.S. Virgin Islands could significantly reduce their dependence on fossil fuels and take a vital step toward a green, sustainable future.
History
In the past decade, the solar electricity output in the U.S. Virgin Islands has shown little progress, remaining stagnant since 2014. For each year from 2014 to 2023, there was zero change in solar energy contribution to the local electricity grid, suggesting a lack of growth in clean energy infrastructure. This stagnation reflects missed opportunities for advancing sustainable electricity and harnessing the abundant sunlight available in the Caribbean region. To tackle this inertia, proactive policies, investments, and the adoption of innovative solar and nuclear technologies are essential to create a thriving clean energy sector.