Electricity in Algeria in 2023
In 2023, Algeria's electricity consumption is overwhelmingly reliant on fossil fuels, making up over 99% of its total electricity generation, with natural gas alone accounting for almost 99%. This leaves a miniscule share for low-carbon energy sources. The dominance of fossil energy not only contributes significantly to air pollution and climate change but also prevents the diversification essential for a sustainable energy future. Currently, low-carbon energy sources like hydro and solar contribute close to none, presenting a critical opportunity to transform Algeria's electricity landscape.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Algeria?
Electricity consumption in Algeria is experiencing growth, with the latest records showing a consumption of 2086 kWh per person, reflecting an increase from the previous record in 2022, which was 2011 kWh per person. This growth signals a positive trend in overall electricity uptake as the country moves towards higher levels of electrification. However, the contribution of low-carbon energy has regressed since its peak in 1985, when low-carbon electricity generation was 27 kWh per person. As of 2023, low-carbon electricity is only at 20 kWh per person, presenting a critical area for enhancement. It is imperative to reverse this decline to safeguard a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
Suggestions
To bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, Algeria can draw insights from regions successfully harnessing solar and nuclear power. Countries like France and Slovakia leverage nuclear power to generate over two-thirds of their electricity mix with clean energy. Solar power serves as another promising route for Algeria, with regions like Lebanon and California successfully integrating significant portions of solar electricity into their grid, achieving around 31% and 29%, respectively. By setting ambitious targets and implementing supportive policies, Algeria can transform its energy sector by expanding its solar and nuclear capacities, ensuring a reduction in fossil fuel dependency and promoting a sustainable future.
History
Looking at the history of low-carbon electricity in Algeria, hydroelectric power has shown inconsistency over the decades. In the early 1980s, there were small fluctuations in hydro generation, with slight increases and decreases. The late 1980s through the 1990s continued this variable trend, marked by both growth and decline. The 2000s showed brief growth, yet by 2013, the trend was again negative. The year 2017 offered a glimmer of hope with the introduction of solar power contributing modestly to the grid, although hydroelectricity, unfortunately, saw another decline. With minimal progress over the past four decades, it is evident that Algeria must take decisive actions for significant and sustained growth in low-carbon electricity generation to meet future electrical needs and environmental goals.
