Electricity in Algeria in 2021

Algeria's electricity consumption relies predominantly on fossil energy rather than low-carbon sources. The impressive fossil energy generation of around 152 TWh, with almost all coming from gas, implies that low-carbon sources play a minimal role in electricity production. In contrast to the global average of 410 watts per person, it is evident that electricity generation remains significantly low in Algeria. The high dependence on fossil energy portrays an environmental challenge as it contributes to increased greenhouse gases emissions. Furthermore, low electricity generation rates can impede industrial growth and limit living standards due to deficient electricity supply.

Suggestions

Increasing low-carbon electricity generation can profoundly transform Algeria's electricity production profile. By observing successful countries, Algeria can draw lessons to exploit its vast renewable resources better. The United States and People's Republic of China demonstrate impressive potential of nuclear, wind, and solar energies, with generation in the range of several hundreds of TWh. France's significant success with nuclear energy, generating 319 TWh, is another valuable lesson bearing Algeria's vast Uranium resources. Additionally, Spain and Brazil's notable progress with wind and solar energies, reaching 94 TWh and 49 TWh respectively, offers a roadmap best suited to Algeria's sunny and windy climate.

History

Historically, low-carbon electricity in Algeria has been predominantly hydro, with the country witnessing small increases and decreases in hydroelectric generation since the early 1980s. Throughout the 1980s and 90s, there were marginal changes in hydroelectric power generation, with small peaks and troughs ranging between 0.1 and -0.4 TWh. In the 21st century, these minimal changes continued, with the largest increase being 0.3 TWh in 2005. Notably, in 2017, Algeria introduced solar energy, initially at 0.5 TWh and growing to 0.7 TWh in 2021. Although the development of low-carbon electricity has been slow, the initiation of solar electricity generation offers a promising tentative step in the right direction.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources