The Way Forward for Renewable Energy in Central America

Background

Central America relies heavily on petroleum imports and unsustainable forms of large hydropower to meet its energy needs. This dependence on conventional energy sources has had wide-ranging social, environmental, and economic consequences. Yet, there is now more opportunity than ever to rapidly advance sustainable energy in Central America through the electricity sector, but also to address the use of traditional biomass and petroleum in transportation. Nevertheless, while the region’s governments have embraced a variety of policies to promote renewable energy, these have not been effective enough to advance renewables to their full potential. READ MORE 

Our Response

Worldwatch research has demonstrated that the successful advancement of renewable energy first requires clear understanding of the current energy situation, as well as of alternative future pathways. This includes an understanding of the technical and resource potential of different power sources, the socioeconomic barriers and opportunities surrounding their use, and the political and financial mechanisms that promote or hinder them. Worldwatch Institute is partnering with the INCAE Business School in Costa Rica to help the region harness its immense potential to utilize renewable energy sources such as wind, geothermal, small-scale hydropower, biomass, and solar. READ MORE 

The Project

Phase 1: Creation of a network of experts and initial study of the status of renewable energy and existing best practices

Throughout 2012 and currently in 2013, Worldwatch and INCAE Business School are are engaged in a comprehensive distillation of data, literature review, and analysis of renewable energy in Central America. Our reporting will highlight best practices in policymaking, finance, and project development at the regional, national, and subnational levels. READ MORE 

Phase 2: Sustainable Energy Roadmaps

During 2013–14, Worldwatch and INCAE will design comprehensive energy roadmaps for select Central American countries. In keeping with the Institute’s sustainable energy development model, the roadmaps will consist of energy efficiency and renewable resource assessments, grid and storage solutions, analysis of socioeconomic impacts of different energy pathways, as well as policy and finance options for the rapid advance of sustainable energy solutions. READ MORE 

Phase 3: Integration and training

In 2014, Worldwatch and INCAE will present the sustainable energy roadmaps to various stakeholders in Central America, including national and sub-national political personnel as well as business and industry experts. We will highlight regional and international best practices to showcase new opportunities for sustainable energy deployment, as well as train stakeholders in using roadmap data for new project development. READ MORE 

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