Electricity in Vanuatu in 2022

In 2022, the state of electricity consumption in Vanuatu is characterized by a significant reliance on low-carbon sources, with solar energy playing a key role. However, the volume of electricity generation per person remains markedly low when compared to the global average, sitting at almost a third of 3606 watts per person worldwide. This situation indicates that the island nation may face challenges related to low levels of electricity generation, such as restrictions on economic growth, limitations in industrial development, and potential impact on the quality of life for its residents. The reliance on fossil fuels, which carry the risk of contributing to climate change and air pollution, remains limited in Vanuatu, pointing to a relative strength in pursuing a sustainable energy path.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Vanuatu can focus on expanding its solar capacity, leveraging the abundant sunlight available throughout the year. Currently, solar is already a significant player in Vanuatu's energy mix. By learning from countries that have successfully scaled their clean energy capabilities, such as Brazil with its significant wind generation or India with substantial solar advancements, Vanuatu could devise strategies to boost its production. Both India and Brazil have successfully increased their clean energy production in ways that are adaptable to Vanuatu’s context, thereby providing valuable insights into policies and technologies that could assist in developing a more robust green energy infrastructure alongside solar.

History

Historically, Vanuatu's journey with low-carbon electricity generation reveals minimal change prior to 2022, as evidenced by data showing no significant adjustments in both wind and solar energy contributions in recent years. For wind energy, there was no recorded increase from 2013 through 2016, and similarly, solar energy did not witness any notable growth from 2018 through 2022. Despite this stagnation, moving forward presents an opportunity for Vanuatu to explore and harness the expansion of solar technologies, setting a foundation for outward growth and increasing energy independence, with a more proactive approach toward enhancing clean energy infrastructure.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources