Renewable Energy in Central America: One Step Forward, One Step Back, and Another Tentative Step Forward Again

Abstract

We are at an historical crossroads. The latest IPCC report gives dire predictions about potential losses from climate change, ranging from high sea levels to deterioration of agricultural production. Although emissions are still concentrated in the North, the most‐rapid growth of emissions is occurring in the South, suggesting the need for major changes in the trajectory of its economic development. Massive aid flows for climate‐change mitigation and adaptation lack any clear framework. We begin the task by examining the evolution of Central American electricity systems, seeking to explain the exceptional ability of several countries wracked by conflict, weak institutions, and struggling economies to move toward renewable fuels. We use first‐person interviews, government documents and websites, and consultant and expert reports to examine the largely unrecognized achievements. The necessity of finding alternative energy is not in question, but how these countries overcame the financial, technical, and policy challenges should be of great interest and could potentially provide valuable lessons for other countries.

Honduras’ Energy Policy: Post Coup d’état Energy Scenarios

“…Similar legislation has been implemented in other nations with positive results (Japan Gov, Act 49, ). Most regulations focus on the supply side rather than efficiency or reducing consumption (Hira, ).…”