Nicaragua is one the largest consumer of oil in Central America but can barely afford to pay for its addiction to fossil fuels. Every single drop of oil is imported into Nicaragua as it does not produce any on its own, normally buying from Venezuela , which accounts for 80% of the nation’s energy. And because of the poor economy the government is footing the bill, subsidizing energy costs in 80% of the households. Luckily the government is attempting a solution, one that involves the increased use of renewable energy and reducing their dependence on foreign sources. But this effort, according to Nicaragua Dispatch will provide more than just reducing the nation’s energy costs.
“Not only will it reduce the economy’s tremulous dependency on foreign oil, but it will also help the government bring electrification, development and progress to the countryside, and do so in a way that protects the environment by deterring deforestation and reducing harmful emissions, administration officials say.”
The country hopes to reduce its costs and dependence drastically in the next ten years by the use of wind, water, geothermal, biomass and solar power. The new term of the Sandista government will hopefully keep the change in progress with a strong push into the energy conscious global community.
Al Campo installs solar panels with help from locals
Want to learn more about renewable energy and how you can help? Check out Al Campo Internationals new teen summer travel program, Nicaragua Globetrotter Solar and become a part in promoting and helping develop renewable energy: While living in this rural village [San Lorenzo] without running water or electricity we will take part in a landmark project for the community and for Al Campo International. Partnering with our local NGO partners, Power to the People and the community of San Lorenzo, we’ll install solar panels on a central structure in the community to provide the people of San Lorenzo with clean and sustainable energy.
Want to read more?
Nicaragua’s renewable energy revolution underway: Nicaragua Dispatch
Energy Profile Nicaragua
The next ‘revolution’ for Nicaragua: energy independence
Nicaragua Globetrotter Solar: Al Campo International
Power to the People
