Trinidad & Tobago's current state of electricity consumption is heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with more than 98% of its electricity being derived from these sources. This indicates a profound dependence on fossil energy that can contribute significantly to climate change and air pollution, which are detrimental to both the environment and public health. In contrast, the contribution of low-carbon energy sources is close to none, making up just 1.5% of the electricity mix. Interestingly, this entire low-carbon share comes from solar energy, underscoring a meager yet promising foray into clean electricity generation. However, there is a pressing need for increased investment and expansion in both solar and nuclear energy to transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable electricity system.

Is Electricity Growing in Trinidad & Tobago?

The electricity consumption per person in Trinidad & Tobago has notably decreased compared to historical figures. The current consumption stands at 6,462 kWh per person, marking a decline from the record level of 7,207 kWh per person experienced in 2015. This reduction of 745 kWh per person suggests stagnation or a decline in electricity growth, which is concerning considering the future demand surge from electrification and advancement in AI technologies. On a more positive note, low-carbon electricity generation per person has increased to 97 kWh, up from a historic low of 35 kWh per person in 1971—an increase that signals a small but significant shift towards cleaner energy. However, this expansion remains inadequate given the urgent need for substantial growth in low-carbon capacity.

Suggestions

To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Trinidad & Tobago can draw valuable lessons from several successful regions and countries. France and Slovakia, for instance, generate more than two-thirds of their electricity from nuclear, revealing a viable pathway for a robust, low-carbon electricity supply. Similarly, solar energy success stories such as California, with a 31% share, and Lebanon at par with 31% solar electricity show the potential for expanding solar capacity. Additionally, with close geographical proximity and the solar potential akin to the Caribbean, Trinidad & Tobago could take a leaf from the strategies of countries like Chile and Cyprus. By investing in the burgeoning solar and nuclear sectors, Trinidad & Tobago can make considerable strides towards a greener and more sustainable electricity future.

History

Reflecting on the history of low-carbon electricity in Trinidad & Tobago, the journey has been predominantly uneventful, characterized by a long-standing reliance on biofuels through the late 20th century with no significant growth. In more recent times, the island has seen only minor developments in solar energy, with no measurable change until 2025, when a slight increment of 0.1 TWh in solar electricity generation was recorded. This stagnation in low-carbon development is concerning and highlights the urgent necessity for a more aggressive adoption and expansion of clean technologies, particularly solar and nuclear, to ensure a sustainable energy future and to mitigate the negative impacts of fossil fuel dependence. Increasing low-carbon energy sources will be crucial in addressing climate change challenges and enhancing energy security.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade