Electricity in Afghanistan in 2023
In 2023, Afghanistan's electricity consumption is significantly lower than the global average, with each person using approximately 173 kWh compared to the global average of 3649 kWh. The bulk of Afghanistan's electricity is generated through fossil-based sources, while low-carbon energy represents close to none of the total. More than half of Afghanistan's electricity is imported, predominantly from neighboring countries. This heavy reliance on imports coupled with low levels of electricity generation can limit industrial growth, stifle economic development, and restrict access to modern conveniences, impacting both the quality of life and the potential for economic progression.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and Enerdata. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Afghanistan?
Reviewing the trends, it's evident that Afghanistan is facing challenges in growing its electricity consumption. The per-person consumption recently increased slightly from 169 kWh in 2021 to 173 kWh in 2023, reflecting a small growth. However, the country's ability to generate low-carbon electricity has drastically declined from a previous high of 66 kWh per person in 1990 to the current 20 kWh. This disappointing trend underscores a pressing need for development and investment in low-carbon electricity infrastructure to reduce dependency on imports and fossil fuels.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Afghanistan could look to countries that have successfully expanded their solar and nuclear energy capabilities. China, for instance, has significantly increased its solar and wind output, generating over 1100 TWh from solar alone. Meanwhile, the United States has made great strides in both nuclear and solar energy. Afghanistan could learn from these countries by investing in solar technology and exploring potential for nuclear energy, given its capacity to deliver a stable and ample electricity supply. Implementation of policies that encourage such investments and development could greatly enhance Afghanistan's low-carbon electricity generation, forging a path toward sustainable growth and energy independence.
History
Historically, Afghanistan's reliance on hydropower has been marked by fluctuations, primarily due to climate variability affecting water flow. Starting from the early 1990s, hydropower saw several declines and minor increases, with a notable drop between 1991 and 1997. The early 2000s experienced a slight increase, followed by further instabilities over the next two decades. In recent years, including the introduction of solar power in 2021, some diversification is evident, but the overall increase in low-carbon electricity remains inadequate. This history highlights a missed opportunity in expanding a more varied low-carbon electricity portfolio essential for an energy-secure future.
