Saint Lucia airborne wind energy system

What is the future of electricity in Saint Lucia?

At the same time, recent developments in energy efficiency, renewable energy, cleaner-burning fuels (e.g., natural gas), electricity storage, and advanced controls and metering present a myriad of opportunities. Saint Lucia’s current electricity system is well managed, reliable, and equitable.

How much electricity does Saint Lucia have?

LUCELEC has an installed electricity generating capacity of 78.4 megawatts (MW), with peak demand of 60 MW. Most of the island’s energy is produced from imported diesel fuel that powers electrical generators. Saint Lucia’s electricity rates are more than triple the U.S. average.

Is Saint Lucia reliant on fossil fuels for electricity generation?

Like many island nations, Saint Lucia is almost 100% reliant on imported fossil fuels for electricity generation, leaving it vulnerable to global oil price fluctuations that directly impact the cost of electricity. Electricity Sector Data

Can a biomass plant be built in Saint Lucia?

A biomass plant requires large tracts of agricultural land and is not economically feasible. Rivers and waterfalls on Saint Lucia do not have a base flow rate sufficient to power water turbines. The most promising hydroelectric spot is the Roseau Reservoir, which can supply 150 kilowatts (kW).

How much geothermal potential does Saint Lucia have?

The volcano that sits in the middle of Saint Lucia provides vast geothermal potential. Conservative estimates indicate more than 30 MW of technical geothermal potential; others estimate 170 MW. Estimates also show that development of this geothermal resource would likely be economically feasible.

Is LUCELEC's metering infrastructure reducing Saint Lucia's electrical losses?

Advanced metering infrastructure installed across 20% of LUCELEC’s customer base in 2010 reduced technical and nontechnical electrical losses. Despite these efforts, Saint Lucia’s transmis- sion losses remain moderately high at more than 9%.