In 2023, Guyana has a challenging electricity landscape dominated by fossil fuels, which account for more than 90% of its electricity generation. This means that clean energy sources make up a small portion of the electricity mix, with almost 7% coming from low-carbon energy. Biofuels contribute a bit more than 5%, and solar energy slightly less than 2% of the overall mix. The heavy reliance on fossil fuels poses risks related to climate change and air pollution, making the shift towards cleaner energy sources more urgent for the country.

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

Is Electricity Growing in Guyana?

Electricity consumption in Guyana is experiencing growth, with the average usage per person rising from 1546 kWh in 2022 to 1622 kWh in 2023, marking an increase of 76 kWh per person. This uptick reflects a positive trajectory in energy use, possibly linked to economic growth or increased access to electricity. Concurrently, low-carbon electricity per person has grown significantly from a previous high of 40 kWh in 2015 to 109 kWh in 2023, demonstrating Guyana's gradual shift towards cleaner energy sources, a crucial move that needs further support and acceleration.

Suggestions

Guyana can significantly enhance its low-carbon electricity generation by harnessing solar and nuclear power. Similar to successful regions like Nevada and California, which have achieved around 30% of their electricity from solar, Guyana can capitalize on its solar potential. Additionally, adopting nuclear energy strategies from countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear contributes more than two-thirds of the electricity, could provide a stable and substantial foundation for clean energy in Guyana. A diversified approach focusing on reliable and sustainable sources will better position the country for an environmentally friendly and economically stable future.

History

Historically, Guyana's low-carbon electricity generation has seen slow progress over the past decades. From 2000 to 2020, biofuels showed no change, and solar energies did not begin appearing until recently, with no significant increases until the modest 0.1 TWh addition from biofuels in 2023. This history underscores a period of stagnation that the country must overcome by investing in scalable and sustainable energy solutions like solar and nuclear. Accelerating these developments is crucial to transitioning away from fossil fuels and achieving a cleaner energy portfolio for the future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade