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Solar Energy: Powering Trinidad and Tobago’s Green Economic Growth
Country or Region Overview
Country or Region: Trinidad and Tobago
Capital: Port of Spain
Total Population: Approximately 1.5 million (as of 2025)
Geographical Location: Trinidad and Tobago is a twin-island nation located in the southern Caribbean, just off the northeastern coast of Venezuela. It is the southernmost Caribbean country and is part of the West Indies. While Trinidad is the larger and more industrialized island, Tobago is known for its eco-tourism and natural landscapes. The country lies just north of the equator and enjoys a tropical climate, making it a promising region for solar energy.
Solar resource map copyright at 2021 Solargis. Licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution license (CC BY-SA 4.0). This is a solar resource map from Solargis. For a higher resolution map, please visit and download.
Table of Contents
Solar Irradiation Data in Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago receives strong solar irradiation year-round, with little seasonal variation. The country’s proximity to the equator provides an ideal environment for solar energy production, particularly during the dry season.
Key Solar Irradiation Data:
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Annual Solar Irradiation: Between 5.0 to 5.5 kWh/m²/day
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Sunshine Hours: Approximately 2,900 to 3,200 hours per year
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Seasonal Patterns: Highest during the dry season (January to May)
This solar profile supports both grid-connected and off-grid solar applications, especially as the country works toward diversifying its energy mix.
If you need to learn more solar power potential in Trinidad and Tobago, please feel free to contact Solarvance for more details.
Temperature Factors in Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago experiences warm temperatures year-round, averaging between 25°C and 33°C. While high temperatures can marginally reduce panel efficiency, modern solar panels are designed to perform well in hot environments.
With proper system design, including airflow beneath panels, and the use of high-efficiency, temperature-tolerant modules, these conditions are very favorable for solar energy.
Energy Demand and Grid Situation in Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago has a well-developed grid system, particularly in urban and industrial areas. Electricity is mainly produced from natural gas, which is domestically abundant. Despite this, the country is working to reduce its carbon footprint and decentralize energy production, especially in rural communities.
Electricity rates are heavily subsidized, which can slightly delay ROI for residential users, but solar still offers major value in commercial, industrial, and public-sector applications, as well as in Tobago where energy reliability can fluctuate.
Preferred System Type in Trinidad and Tobago
Given the varying needs between urban, rural, and island zones, the following system types are well-suited:
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Grid-Connected Systems: For residential and commercial buildings in areas with reliable grid access
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Hybrid Systems: Ideal for businesses, public buildings, and homes that require backup during outages
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Off-Grid Systems: Suitable for agriculture, tourism sites, and remote Tobago communities
There is growing demand for solar-plus-storage systems to address power quality concerns and energy independence goals.
Dust and Sand Factor in Trinidad and Tobago
Dust levels are generally low to moderate, though some inland and urban areas may experience occasional buildup, especially during the dry season.
Panels should be cleaned every 1–2 months to maintain optimal performance, and system design should include a tilt to assist natural cleaning by rainfall.
Humidity and Rainfall (Humidity Factor) in Trinidad and Tobago
Humidity levels range from 75% to 90%, particularly during the rainy season from June to December. The climate is typically humid year-round, with brief but intense rainfalls common.
Solar equipment should include:
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Sealed (IP65 or higher) enclosures
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UV- and moisture-resistant cabling
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Rust-resistant mounting structures
Proper installation prevents corrosion and ensures system longevity in a humid environment.
Ocean (Salt Corrosion Factor) in Trinidad and Tobago
Both islands are surrounded by ocean, and many properties are within close proximity to the coast. Salt mist exposure is moderate to high, especially in Tobago and southern Trinidad.
To ensure durability, systems should use:
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Marine-grade aluminum or coated steel racking
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Stainless steel fasteners
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Anti-corrosion coatings and sealants
Maintenance is important in coastal areas to check for salt buildup and wear.
Government Policies and Solar Incentives in Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago is pursuing a cleaner energy future with its Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Policy. Although incentives are still developing, several actions are underway:
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Government targets 10% renewable energy in the electricity mix by 2025
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Pilot solar projects for schools and government buildings
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Duty exemptions on some renewable energy equipment
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Interest from international development partners to support clean energy infrastructure
While there is currently no feed-in tariff, net billing schemes are being evaluated, and local awareness of solar benefits is increasing.
ROI on Solar Systems in Trinidad and Tobago
Due to low electricity prices from subsidies, ROI can take slightly longer for residential users. However, for commercial, industrial, and remote applications, solar offers high returns over time.
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ROI Period: Approximately 6 to 9 years (shorter for commercial users)
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Post-ROI Savings: Major reduction in monthly costs, especially where generator use is replaced
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Added Benefits: Reduced emissions, increased energy security, and property value enhancement
Solar power also helps protect against future volatility in global fuel prices.
Conclusion on Solar Power in Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago offers solid potential for solar energy, particularly in sectors where energy resilience, carbon reduction, and long-term cost savings are top priorities. With abundant sun, rising awareness, and improving policy frameworks, the country is poised to expand solar deployment—especially in commercial, agricultural, and public-sector settings.
Solarvance is ready to support this transition by offering tropical-grade, corrosion-resistant solar systems tailored to Trinidad and Tobago’s environment. Whether you’re powering a remote farm, a retail center, or a beachfront villa, we provide solutions built for long-term success.
Choose Solarvance for Your Solar System
Contact us today to explore customized solar solutions for your needs, whether you’re interested in grid-connected, off-grid, or hybrid solar systems. Our team at Solarvance is here to guide you through every step of the process, from system design to installation and maintenance.
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