Energy is a critical component of the United States’ relationships with Latin American and Caribbean countries. Latin America holds some of the world’s largest oil and gas reserves and has abundant renewable energy potential. The region faces rapidly growing oil consumption and soaring demand for electricity. With strong economic growth and a growing middle class, the region is expected to see primary energy demand increase by 110 percent between 2000 and 2040, including a 183 percent rise in electricity demand and a 52 percent rise in oil dema