Unveiling the Natural Gas Opportunity in the Caribbean

Date
Apr 2019
This study describes the options for introducing natural gas in the Caribbean region and includes an economic assessment of the cost of natural gas to each of the countries. The natural gas can provide a feasible alternative to reduce fuel oil dependency in the Caribbean and alleviate pressures that increase electricity prices by introducing an additional energy source. This paper analyzes the natural gas demand, costs, the possible competitive market alternatives for the successful development of natural gas import facilities in the region, and a brief analysis of the existing regulatory frameworks in the Caribbean for electricity and gas. The results find that a switch from fuel oil to natural gas could reduce the average cost of generation between 17 and 40%, increasing energy affordability for end users, and contributing to increase access to public services and reduce poverty.