Electricity in Vanuatu in 2021

Throughout 2021, Vanuatu's electricity consumption per person was relatively low, significantly below the global average of 410 watts per person. The data shows that Vanuatu primarily utilized electricity generated from clean, low-carbon sources, namely wind and solar power. However, the contribution from these sources can be described as minuscule, as neither solar nor wind energy provided any significant electricity generation. The country has also experimented with biofuels for electricity generation, but again the output was virtually nil. Given such low levels of electricity generation from low-carbon sources, it's reasonable to assume that a large percentage of Vanuatu's consumed electricity is imported or derived from fossil fuels, which not only has potential environmental consequences but also poses risks to energy sovereignty and economic stability.

Suggestions

Increasingly low-carbon electricity generation in Vanuatu could involve significant investment in and expansion of solar power, as it already has a standing in the country's energy mix. Drawing lessons from countries with successful low-carbon energy utilization, Vanuatu may also look to expand its wind energy portfolio. For instance, similarly isolated and climate-vulnerable islands like Denmark and the Netherlands have achieved great strides in wind power generation, providing 19 TWh and 29 TWh respectively. Their success suggests that dedication to expanding wind power, even in geographically challenging and isolated conditions, can be a fruitful endeavor. Therefore, Vanuatu should consider embracing and investing more in these two forms of clean, low-carbon electricity generation methods.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Vanuatu has been quite static and undeveloped. Data from 2011 to 2021 show that while the country has explored the use of clean energy options, such as wind, solar, and biofuels, there is yet to be any significant increase in electricity generation from these sources over this decade. Unfortunately, there has been no significant growth throughout these years in any of these energy types. Indeed, both solar and wind energy sources continued to yield no contribution to the country's overall electricity production even as of 2021. As for biofuels, the situation is quite similar, with no perceivable change in electricity generation since they were first introduced in 2011. This lack of progress in developing and harnessing low-carbon energy sources for electricity generation is consistent, but it also presents a clear opportunity for Vanuatu to recalibrate its energy strategy towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources