In Guadeloupe, more than half of the electricity consumed in 2022 was generated from fossil fuels, making up approximately 65% of their electricity mix. This high reliance on fossil energy highlights a significant challenge concerning climate change and air pollution. On the brighter side, low-carbon energy sources accounted for the remaining 35%, with biofuels contributing to almost 15% of the total electricity. Wind and solar energy each represented close to 7%, while geothermal energy was just over 6%. Guadeloupe has made strides towards clean energy that are worth commending; however, there's a substantial opportunity and necessity for further progress towards a more sustainable and cleaner electricity future.
Is Electricity Growing in Guadeloupe?
The latest electricity consumption figures in Guadeloupe indicate a slight decline in overall electricity usage, with a reduction from a peak in 2016 of 4375 kWh/person to 4264 kWh/person in 2022. This drop suggests that the electricity demand has not been growing, which could stem from various economic or demographic factors. Nonetheless, there is good news regarding low-carbon electricity generation per capita, which increased from a record 1403 kWh/person in 2021 to 1482 kWh/person in 2022. This growth in clean electricity must pave the way for further expansion, helping to counteract the stagnation of overall electricity consumption and aiming for a sustainable and green future.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Guadeloupe can take inspiration from regions that have successfully integrated larger shares of clean energy into their electricity mix. Solar energy, which plays a significant role in Cyprus and Yemen with more than 17%, could be particularly beneficial given Guadeloupe's sunny climate. Additionally, nuclear energy, a staple in countries such as France and Slovakia where it makes up more than 60% of electricity, could offer a substantial and consistent source of clean energy. Finally, wind energy, effectively utilized in Iowa and South Dakota for over 60% of their electricity, could serve as another model for Guadeloupe. By adopting these strategies, Guadeloupe could reduce its dependence on fossil energy and further secure a low-carbon future.
History
Looking back at the history of low-carbon electricity generation in Guadeloupe, there have been various periods of activity and dormancy. The early 2000s were largely stagnant in terms of innovation in biofuels, and geothermal energy saw a marginal increase only in 2005. Fast forward to 2012, when solar energy finally saw a small gain. In recent years, particularly around 2021, biofuels experienced an increase, highlighting the modest progress made on the islands. However, geothermal, wind, and solar have seen minimal changes, signifying an urgent need for attention and investment in these low-carbon technologies. The history underscores the necessity for Guadeloupe to focus on accelerating its clean energy initiatives in the coming decades.