Electricity in Brunei in 2023
In 2023, Brunei's electricity consumption relies entirely on fossil fuels, with zero contribution from low-carbon or clean energy sources. The majority of Brunei's electricity, around 77%, is generated from gas, and a significant portion of the remainder, about 22%, comes from coal. This fossil fuel dependence means that all of Brunei's electricity generation contributes to climate change and air pollution, with no mitigation from cleaner energy types. The urgent need to diversify the electricity mix is apparent, as embracing clean energy could significantly reduce environmental impacts while boosting energy security.
Is Electricity Growing in Brunei?
Currently, Brunei's electricity consumption appears to be on a downward trend. In 2023, the country consumed approximately 12,180 kWh per person, a decline from the 2020 record of around 12,829 kWh per person. This means there has been a decrease of 650 kWh per person, indicating reduced electricity usage. Equally concerning is the complete absence of low-carbon electricity generation in 2023, down from a historical peak of just 5 kWh per person in 2011. The lack of growth and diversification in electricity generation undermines Brunei's potential to meet future energy demands and transition towards a greener economy.
Suggestions
To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Brunei can draw inspiration from countries like the United Arab Emirates, which generates 20% of its electricity from nuclear energy, and Lebanon, where solar power contributes 31% of the electricity mix. Nuclear power, as seen in France, Slovakia, and Ukraine, which rely on it for more than half of their electricity, can provide a consistent and scalable clean energy source. Meanwhile, Brunei should also consider expanding solar power, much like Lebanon, to harness its abundant sunshine. Adopting these strategies offers Brunei significant opportunities to increase clean energy, reduce its carbon footprint, and align with global energy trends.
History
Historically, Brunei has seen little change in low-carbon electricity generation, particularly solar energy, from 2011 through 2018, showing consistent outputs of zero. This stagnation highlights a missed opportunity for growth in green electricity sources during these years. By looking at global success stories in solar and nuclear energy utilization in recent decades, Brunei could have set ambitious targets and prioritized low-carbon infrastructure investments to significantly transform its energy landscape. Drawing on past lessons, Brunei's future energy policies must focus on diversifying electricity sources, thereby safeguarding its energy future and promoting sustainability.