Renewables in Antigua
Soft oil prices in recent years have caused several Caribbean islands to cut back on their plans for alternative energy installations. Antigua is one example, relying on imported oil for its electricity, a portion of its fresh-water needs and the inexpensive airfare which delivers tourists-now the mainstay of its economy. Antigua, an island country in the eastern Caribbean covering approximately 171 square miles and supporting a population of 83,000, is one of many well-known tourist attractions. Since 1979, the power generated by local stations has more than doubled from 45,000 MW in 1979 to 115,000 MW 1989. Annual peak demand for electricity has doubled as well, increasing from a peak demand of eight MW in 1979 to 18 MW in 1989. Although installed capacity is small by U.S. utility standards, growth on the island is nevertheless straining existing power generating facilities, a fact amply demonstrated by routine power outages. Many of the tourists who flock to Antigua do so because of its reputation as a sunny place, and to sail in the trade winds which blow steadily across the comparatively flat island. These two characteristics also bode well for potential solar and wind energy opportunities, and effort made to tap these resources are described.
- OSTI ID:
- 6960239
- Journal Information:
- Independent Energy; (USA), Vol. 19:8; ISSN 1043-7320
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Energy Snapshot - Antigua and Barbuda
No honeymoon in Caribbean as energy costs soar. [Resorts and cruise ships]
Related Subjects
14 SOLAR ENERGY
SOLAR ENERGY
RESOURCE POTENTIAL
WEST INDIES
ENERGY SOURCE DEVELOPMENT
WIND POWER
ELECTRIC POWER
ENERGY DEMAND
DEMAND
ENERGY
ENERGY SOURCES
ISLANDS
POWER
RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES
170400* - Wind Energy- Economic
Industrial
& Business Aspects
140300 - Solar Energy- Economic
Industrial
& Business Aspects