How much does electricity cost in Belize?

Belize’s utility rates are approximately $0.22 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), lower than the Caribbean regional average of $0.33/kWh because of existing renewable energy projects, but still high compared with U.S. mainland rates.

Where does the energy in Belize come from?

Almost half the energy in Belize comes from hydroelectric power and biomass. BEL purchases 71.5% of its electricity from five domestic independent power producers (IPPs) which produce much of the remaining energy—about 55.6%—of all the electrical needs of the country, and about 40% from a Mexican government-owned electric utility.

Who owns Belize Electricity Limited (BEL)?

95% by 2030 Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) distributes electricity throughout the country. It is owned by the government of Belize (70.2%), the Social Security Board (26.9%), and approximately 1,500 shareholders (2.9%) and is regulated by the Public Utilities Commission (PUC).

How many kilowatts can a private company generate in Belize?

Private entities are allowed to generate up to 75 kilowatts of power, after which licensing requirements apply. Almost half the energy in Belize comes from hydroelectric power and biomass.

Why is Belize included in this energy Snapshot series?

Although not an island nation, Belize is included in this energy snapshot series because of the small diesel systems used to power its islands and the fact that it is a member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), an alliance of 15 Caribbean nations in the region.

How many MW of hydroelectric power does Belize have?

Current hydroelectric capacity is produced by 25.5 MW at the Mollejon Hydro Plant, 7.0 MW at the Chalillo Hydroelec-tric Dam Plant, 19 MW at the Vaca Hydroelectric Facilities, and 3.5 MW at the HydroMaya Dam. The University of Belize has a solar photovoltaic (PV) system that supplies 0.1% of the country’s electricity supply.