The Energy Transition in Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Kitts and Nevis’ energy transition is shaped by the twin-island federation’s strategic focus on reducing fossil fuel dependence, strengthening energy security, and promoting renewable energy development. The current energy mix remains dominated by imported diesel, but national policies, including the National Energy Policy (2011) and commitments under the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), prioritise renewable integration, energy efficiency, and climate resilience. Solar PV deployment has expanded across both islands, and wind energy potential has been identified, though utility-scale wind remains under development. On Nevis, the Nevis Geothermal Project has been a focal point of renewable strategy, with exploration efforts aimed at providing stable baseload power and potential electricity exports to neighbouring islands. There is no domestic production of critical minerals, and Saint Kitts and Nevis remains fully dependent on imports for materials such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements essential for renewable technologies and storage systems. Key challenges include high infrastructure costs, hurricane vulnerability, and financing constraints, but opportunities exist in geothermal development, distributed solar systems, and regional cooperation through CARICOM and the OECS. With its geothermal prospects, clear policy framework, and renewable ambitions, Saint Kitts and Nevis is well-positioned to advance its clean energy transition and improve long-term energy resilience.