Energy policies in Latin America and the Caribbean and the evolution of sustainability

Abstract

Purpose – The paper seeks to offer an evaluation of the energy sector's contribution to sustainable development in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) in the last 30 years. Design/methodology/approach – Sustainable development indicators proposed by Latin American Energy Organization/Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean/German Technical Cooperation are used, in conjunction with indicators proposed by IAEA, United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, IEA, EUROSTAT and the EEA. They are based on objectives, priorities and available information and their values are analyzed in a period of significant changes in LAC energy policies. Findings – State and evolution of sustainability in LAC are presented at a country and sub-regional levels. Some important remarks are drawn about energy policies' contribution to sustainable development and some key areas to improve are identified. Originality/value – This research intends to highlight implicit deficiencies in energy policies that could suggest new priority guidelines for future policy decisions, in order to improve their contribution to sustainable development. © 2008, Emerald Group Publishing Limited