The Energy Transition in the Bahamas

The Bahamas’ energy transition is framed by its dependence on imported petroleum, which accounts for the vast majority of power generation across its dispersed island geography. The government’s National Energy Policy 2013–2033 targets 30% renewable energy by 2030, focusing on solar PV deployment, microgrids, and energy efficiency. Progress includes solar installations on several Family Islands and at key public facilities, supported by the Caribbean Development Bank and international donors. There is no known critical minerals production within the Bahamas, with the country fully reliant on imports for key materials such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements required for renewable technologies and storage systems. The nation’s vast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) holds theoretical potential for offshore wind and ocean energy, though seabed mineral exploration has not been pursued. Regulatory efforts are supported through CARICOM and OECS initiatives, with investment challenges tied to fragmented infrastructure, hurricane risk, and high capital costs. Opportunities lie in climate finance access, distributed renewable systems, and leveraging regional partnerships to enhance energy resilience and advance decarbonisation goals. The Bahamas faces unique challenges tied to its archipelagic geography, but its renewable energy goals and early solar deployments reflect positive momentum. Advancing distributed energy solutions and securing climate finance will be critical to ensuring a just and resilient energy transition.