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.

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.

Will the government of Belize invest in solar energy?

The Government of Belize intends to encourage investment in utility solar-energy facilities. However, it has not yet publicly announced a request for proposals. On a smaller scale, the Government of Belize has installed solar micro-grids and solar-powered streetlights in rural communities not yet connected to the national grid.

Is Belize a good place to invest in energy?

Belize's energy sector is looking to expand in biomass and small-scale solar, as well as create new opportunities in electric vehicles, large-scale solar, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and waste-to-energy. However, Belize remains a net-importer of electricity from Mexico, which makes energy imports expensive and unpredictable.

Does Belize use solar power?

Belize uses solar power on a smaller scale, with the Government having installed solar micro-grids and solar-powered streetlights in rural communities not yet connected to the national grid. The Government of Belize, along with Belize Electricity Limited (BEL), intends to launch a pilot project introducing electric vehicles.