As of 2022, electricity consumption in St. Lucia predominantly relies on fossil fuels, which account for roughly 97.5% of the electricity supply. The island nation has made modest strides in adopting clean energy, with solar power contributing approximately 2.5% to the electricity mix. This heavy reliance on fossil fuels presents significant challenges, as it not only hinders efforts to combat climate change but also poses risks such as air pollution and energy insecurity. Increasing the proportion of low-carbon energy sources like solar and potentially nuclear could be key to establishing a more sustainable and secure energy future for St. Lucia.
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, St. Lucia can draw lessons from other nations that have excelled in this domain. For instance, Lebanon stands out with solar power comprising about one-third of its electricity generation, demonstrating solar's potential in regions with ample sunlight. Similarly, Denmark showcases an impressive commitment to wind energy, generating over half of its electricity this way. Although nuclear energy is not currently part of St. Lucia's mix, countries like France have shown the viability of nuclear power, achieving more than two-thirds of their electricity from this source. Adopting technology and investment strategies to harness solar and exploring the potential of nuclear energy could help St. Lucia transition towards a greener energy portfolio.
The history of low-carbon electricity generation in St. Lucia over recent years has been relatively static, particularly regarding solar energy. From 2018 to 2022, there has been no change in solar electricity generation, indicating a stagnation that contrasts with global trends towards increasing clean energy sources. The data reflects an opportunity and a need for greater investment and policy support to invigorate the clean energy sector, fostering innovation and infrastructure development. By addressing these historical challenges, St. Lucia can aspire to build a resilient and sustainable electricity system that better supports its environmental and economic goals.