Inefficiencies and Vulnerabilities of the Puerto Rico Electrical Power Systems

Abstract

Puerto Rico's electricity system faces inefficiencies and vulnerabilities due to obsolete infrastructure, high dependence on fossil fuels, and limited integration of renewable energy. This study analyzes systemic and operational challenges that affect the island's energy resilience through technical diagnostics, public policy analysis, and economic tools such as Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) and Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) simulations. Geospatial and cybersecurity assessments identify critical vulnerabilities to natural disasters and digital threats. Results revealed that the aging of the grid reduces reliability, the transition to renewable energies advances slowly despite Law 17-2019, and barriers persist in the adoption of smart technologies. Strategies such as microgrids, distributed generation, and advanced storage are proposed. The study supports a phased modernization plan that prioritizes infrastructure renewal, regulatory reforms, and community inclusion, with the goal of achieving a more sustainable and resilient electricity system for Puerto Rico. Key Terms ⎯ Distributed Generation, Energy Resilience, Fossil Fuel Dependency, Microgrid.