The Power Play: Unraveling Belize's Electricity Generation Secrets

Belize's energy is based on four main sources: imported fossil fuels, biomass, hydro, and imported electricity. The country is committed to fostering interests in the fields of biomass, hydro, solar, and wind power. Belize Electricity (BEL) is the main distributor of electricity, although it does not generate its own power. Instead, BEL buys most of its electricity from the Belize Electric Company Ltd, which operates the Chalillo, Mollejon, and Vaca hydroelectric facilities in Western Belize. The country also purchases power from Comisión Federal de Electricidad, the Mexican state-owned electricity company, and Hydro Maya in Southern Belize. Belize has a history of development in the green economy and is actively supporting sustainable developments.

Hydropower

Belize has invested in domestically produced energy over the last 20 years to strengthen its energy sector. Hydropower is one of the areas in which the country has invested, alongside biomass, solar, and liquified petroleum gas (LPG). These investments are driven by an increased emphasis on energy security.

Belize is developing sustainable energy project policies, which include expanding hydropower. The country remains a net importer of electricity from Mexico, which makes energy imports expensive and unpredictable. However, significant portions of Belize are not connected to the national grid, including tourist hotspots such as the cayes and eco-tourism lodges in the rainforest. These companies rely heavily on alternative energy sources, such as hydropower and solar power, to supplement imported fuel.

The Government of Belize is eager to enhance its energy sustainability and become a net exporter of energy to neighbouring countries. The government is also pursuing an initiative to convert sargassum seaweed to electricity and is seeking to promote additional similar projects.

U.S. firms seeking to do business in the energy sector have reported their frustrations with undue delays, weak and contradictory regulations, and a lack of transparency in how to implement projects.

Solar power

Belize is committed to fostering interests in solar power, along with hydropower, biomass, and wind power. The country has an abundance of natural resources, including consistent sunshine hours, which makes it an ideal location for solar energy generation. Belize receives an average of 5.5 hours of sunlight per day, and about 65% of the country's land area receives 5.0 to 5.5 kilowatt-hours (KWh) per square meter of sunshine per day.

The Government of Belize has installed solar microgrids and solar-powered streetlights in rural communities that are not yet connected to the national grid. Additionally, Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) installed the country's first utility-scale solar power plant, a 250-kilowatt facility in the capital city of Belmopan in 2018. This project has served as a pilot for future solar energy developments in the country.

There are three types of solar panel systems in Belize: Off-Grid Systems, Grid Integrated Systems, and Grid Tied Systems. Off-Grid Systems are completely disconnected from the electricity grid and are commonly used in remote areas. Grid Integrated Systems have batteries to store and supply power but are also connected to the grid as a backup. Grid Tied Systems are tied to the electric grid and only partially provide energy from the solar panel system. They do not have batteries to store power, so they rely on the grid during nights and on cloudy or rainy days.

Solar panels in Belize have lifespans of up to 25 to 30 years. Batteries have improved lifespans of up to 8 years for Lead Acid batteries and up to 15 years for Lithium batteries. Solar energy solutions in Belize are tailored to meet specific energy requirements, combining high-quality components with outstanding customer service.

Wind power

Belize is developing sustainable energy project policies, and wind power is one of the fastest-growing renewable energy technologies globally, with an annual growth rate of 30.7%. However, Belize has not yet harnessed wind energy, which is unfortunate given that it has the potential to produce 3800 MW in total between its coastal and mountain regions.

There are two basic types of wind power turbine systems: Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWT) and Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines (HAWT). VAWTs have the main rotor shaft set vertically, with the main components located at the base of the turbine. This arrangement allows the generator and gearbox to be located close to the ground, facilitating service and repair. They do not need to be pointed into the wind, which removes the need for wind-sensing and orientation mechanisms. HAWTs, on the other hand, have the main rotor shaft and electrical generator at the top of a tower, and must be pointed into the wind.

Imported fossil fuels

Belize relies heavily on fossil fuels, especially in its transport sector. Notably, Belize imports 100% of the fossil fuels it uses. In 2018, the country produced 2,000 barrels of crude oil per day, drawing from 6.7 million barrels of proven reserves. However, this is not enough to meet the country's needs. As a result, Belize relies on petroleum product imports from Mexico, its primary source.

Belize's energy profile is shaped by its lack of fossil fuel infrastructure. The country has no pipelines or rail systems to transport petroleum products, relying instead on tanker trucks to move these goods to the deep-water port. This dynamic adds complexity and cost to the country's energy supply chain.

In addition to crude oil and petroleum products, liquified petroleum gas (LPG) is also an important component of Belize's energy mix. LPG is used for various purposes, including cooking, heating, and power generation. While LPG is a cleaner-burning fuel than traditional solid fuels, it still contributes to the country's greenhouse gas emissions.

Belize has recognised the environmental and economic challenges posed by its reliance on imported fossil fuels. As a result, the country has committed to transitioning to renewable energy sources. Belize intends to achieve an 85% renewable energy target by 2030 through energy diversification and improvements in electricity transmission infrastructure.

To achieve this goal, Belize is developing sustainable energy project policies that focus on expanding the use of biomass power and solar-based distributed energy systems. The government is also exploring opportunities in electric vehicles, large-scale solar, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and waste-to-energy projects. By diversifying its energy sources and investing in renewable alternatives, Belize aims to enhance its energy sustainability and become a net exporter of energy to neighbouring countries.

Sustainable energy goals

Belize's energy sources are primarily renewable, with hydro energy and biomass energy being the most prominent. The country has a history of development in the green economy and is committed to fostering interests in biomass, hydro, solar, and wind power.

Belize's sustainable energy goals are focused on reducing its dependence on imported fossil-derivative energy and achieving greater energy efficiency. The country has an abundance of natural resources, including forestry and agro-processed residual goods, consistent sunshine, and river potential. These natural advantages position Belize well to develop a range of renewable energy sources.

The Government of Belize (GOB) has implemented several initiatives to promote sustainable energy and reduce carbon emissions. The National Energy Policy Framework, endorsed by the government, outlines a commitment to renewable ventures, with a target of achieving 89% energy efficiency. Belize is also a participant in the United Nations' program REDD (Reduction of Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation) and has signed the San Jose Pact, which aims to reduce fuel prices through concessionary credits from Mexico and Venezuela.

Belize is also investing in domestically produced energy to stabilize its energy sector and enhance energy security. This includes investments in hydropower, biomass, solar, and liquified petroleum gas (LPG). The government is encouraging investment in utility solar-energy facilities and has installed solar microgrids and solar-powered streetlights in rural communities. Additionally, Belize is pursuing initiatives to convert sargassum seaweed into electricity and promote electric vehicles, with plans to replace its diesel school bus fleet with electric buses.

Belize's sustainable energy goals are closely tied to its economic development and energy independence. By harnessing its natural resources and developing renewable energy sources, Belize aims to reduce its carbon footprint and improve its long-term prosperity.

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