In Cambodia's electricity mix for 2024, fossil fuels continue to play a significant role, comprising over 43% of the total, with coal being the primary contributor at just over 41%. Low-carbon sources account for almost 30% of electricity consumption, underscoring the ongoing efforts to clean Cambodia's energy supply. Notably, hydropower is a major contributor within the low-carbon category, providing nearly 25% of the electricity consumed. Solar power is present, but at less than 5%, indicating room for growth in this sector. With the rest of the necessary energy being net imports, there's a clear opportunity for Cambodia to enhance its low-carbon electricity capacity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and imported energy.

Is Electricity Growing in Cambodia?

In recent years, Cambodia has seen an encouraging upward trend in electricity consumption, with the 2024 per capita usage reaching 1217 kWh, which marks an increase of 134 kWh per person from the previous year. However, the share of low-carbon electricity generation per person has decreased from earlier figures, dropping by 39 kWh to 362 kWh per person since 2022. This stagnation in low-carbon gains is concerning, as the demand for electricity is increasing. Therefore, it is crucial for Cambodia to prioritize expanding low-carbon electricity sources to ensure sustainable growth and to mitigate environmental impacts associated with fossil fuel use.

Suggestions

To boost its low-carbon electricity generation, Cambodia can look to successful regions as a guide. Solar power has immense potential in Cambodia, and examining models from places like Nevada and California, where solar contributes 31% and 35% respectively, can provide valuable insights. Nuclear energy, a reliable low-carbon source, should also be considered, taking inspiration from countries like Slovakia and France, where nuclear energy accounts for more than half of the energy mix. Additionally, while not as directly applicable for Cambodia given its geography, wind energy's successful deployment in places like Denmark and Iowa, where it exceeds 50%, highlights the importance of embracing a diversified low-carbon strategy tailored to each country's specific conditions.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in Cambodia tells a story of gradual growth, especially in hydropower, from 2012 through to the present. Since 2012, Cambodia has consistently increased its hydropower capacity, with several significant boosts, including a notable increase of over 2 TWh in 2018. While solar energy saw initial modest increments, since 2019, its annual contribution has steadily increased, reflected in growth spurts such as the 0.3 TWh added in 2024. While biofuels have maintained a steady presence without substantial growth or decline, the overall trajectory signals Cambodia’s commitment towards increasing its low-carbon energy sources, which needs bolstering to align with the rising demand for clean energy.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade