In 2024, Cambodia's electricity consumption paints a vivid picture of both reliance on fossil fuels and the gradual embrace of low-carbon energy sources. Almost half of Cambodia’s electricity is derived from fossil fuels, with coal accounting for a significant portion. Low-carbon energy provides almost a third of the country’s electricity, predominantly driven by hydropower, which accounts for nearly a quarter of the electricity mix. Meanwhile, solar energy contributes to a smaller yet growing segment, representing close to 5%. Additionally, around a quarter of Cambodia’s electricity is net imports, signaling reliance on external sources. This division of electricity sources underscores the pressing need to pivot more substantially toward clean and sustainable energy pathways to address global environmental concerns.
Is Electricity Growing in Cambodia?
Cambodia’s electricity consumption is on the rise, highlighting an upward trajectory in energy demand. In the latest data for 2024, the electricity consumption per person is 1,217 kWh, marking an increase of 134 kWh compared to the previous record in 2023. However, this robust growth in electricity usage is not mirrored in the low-carbon sector. The generation of low-carbon electricity per person currently stands at 362 kWh, which unfortunately reflects a decrease of 39 kWh from the 2022 record. This inconsistency indicates a growing gap between overall energy consumption and low-carbon energy generation, which is a cause for concern in the face of escalating demand and the imperative for cleaner energy solutions.
Suggestions
To bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, Cambodia can take cues from successful regions that have significantly harnessed solar, wind, and nuclear energy. Countries like Lebanon have excelled in solar energy generation, reaching 31%, while Greece has also made commendable strides with solar at 25%. These examples suggest that solar energy, given Cambodia’s favorable geographic conditions, could be significantly expanded. Furthermore, countries such as France and Slovakia provide excellent models for nuclear energy, contributing 69% and 64% respectively to their electricity from nuclear sources. By investing in solar and considering nuclear energy options, Cambodia could enhance its clean energy portfolio substantially.
History
Cambodia's journey with low-carbon electricity began modestly in the early 2000s, with hydro as the primary source making incremental progress. A significant leap was observed in 2018 with a notable increase of 2.3 TWh. Yet, fluctuations were evident, as seen with a decline in 2019. Solar energy began making its entry into the mix by 2019, growing steadily each year despite initial small additions. Recently, in 2024, incremental growth in solar generation was a positive note. The historical pattern demonstrates the nation's intriguing pathway toward harnessing green energy but also highlights the pivotal need for a stable and robust approach to low-carbon electricity expansion to achieve sustained and impactful growth.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.