What kind of energy does Haiti use?

This page is part of Global Energy Monitor 's Latin America Energy Portal. Haiti relies on a mix of imported oil and domestic biofuels such as wood and sugar cane for its total energy supply. As of 2020, more than 90% of electrical generation in Haiti was derived from fossil fuels and less than 10% from renewables.

Why is electricity so expensive in Haiti?

This leaves the country vulnerable to global oil price fluctuations, which directly impact the cost of electricity. Haiti also faces challenges in terms of lack of grid access, reliability of electricity service, and the prevalence of wood and charcoal fuels for home energy consumption.

Can solar energy be used effectively in Haiti?

Solar energy can be used effectively in Haiti, offering energy self-sufficiency to the most isolated cities in the absence of a power grid. The country’s location in the tropics gives it very strong solar energy potential. It is believed that solar energy will play a fundamental role in access to electricity over the next 10 to 15 years.

How does oil affect electricity in Haiti?

Like many island nations, Haiti is highly dependent on imported fossil fuels for electric generation—roughly 85% of its electricity is produced from the combustion of petroleum-based fuels. This leaves the country vulnerable to global oil price fluctuations, which directly impact the cost of electricity.

How much power does Haiti have reliably?

Haiti has an installed capacity of 250 to 400 Megawatts (MW) but only 60 percent of it is reliable. Many generation units and grid elements need rehabilitation and repair work. The distribution network has not been rehabilitated for more than 40 years.

Does Haiti produce coal?

While Haiti does not produce, consume, or import coal, the country uses extensive amounts of charcoal (often referred to as coal) for household activities. Haiti does not produce, export, import, or have proven reserves of crude oil or natural gas, nor does it produce refined petroleum products.