How much electricity does Panama need?

At the same time, electricity demand in the country has continued to increase, reaching a peak demand of over 1 600 megawatts (MW) in 2015. To meet this growth, Panama introduced wind and solar photovoltaic (PV) energy in 2013, which reached 270 MW and 90 MW of installed capacity by 2016, respectively.

What are the challenges facing Panama's energy sector?

Challenge: Planning will remain an important cross-cutting area for Panama’s energy sector, as planners must cope with rising variability and uncertainty from the envisaged high penetration of solar and wind generation through to 2050.

How can Panama adapt its energy system?

To adapt Panama’s energy system to this evolving paradigm, a comprehensive plan is needed that considers a rapid growth in demand from the electrification of transport, including from the introduction of expanded metro lines, electric passenger vehicles and electric buses.

Where can I study energy and Environmental Engineering in Panama?

These include the energy and environmental engineering course ofered by the Technological University of Panama (UTP) at the undergraduate, master’s and doctoral levels, and upcoming degrees at the University of Panama (UP) in electricity and renewable energy engineering.

How does Panama rely on fossil fuels?

Panama depends heavily on fossil fuels, which have historically accounted for roughly two-thirds of total primary energy supply. The country’s transport sector has until recently relied almost entirely on oil and oil products.

What are the energy-intensive industries in Panama?

Energy-intensive industries in Panama include food, tobacco, cement and paper production. Based on SNE (2015), Plan Energético Nacional (2015-2050). 4. COMMERCIAL AND PUBLIC SECTOR: The commercial and public sector is the largest consumer of electricity among the four sectors. Consumption reached 2 816 kboe in 2014 (Figure 5).