In 2023, electricity consumption in Eswatini primarily relies on net imports, with more than half of the electricity coming from external sources, accounting for 62% of the total. The generation of low-carbon electricity in the country makes up about 36% of the total, indicating a solid reliance on greener sources. Within this category, hydropower leads the way, contributing over 20%, followed by biofuels at 14%, and a small but growing contribution from solar power at 2%. Fossil fuels, mainly coal, constitute a very minor share, only 1% of the total electricity usage. This clean energy mix highlights Eswatini's potential to further transition towards sustainable energy sources, reducing its dependence on fossil fuels and imports.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and Enerdata. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Eswatini?
Despite Eswatini's efforts to generate low-carbon electricity, there is a noticeable decline in electricity consumption from its peak. In 2023, the total consumption stands at 1211 kWh per person, compared to the all-time high in 2007 of 1550 kWh per person, indicating a decrease of 339 kWh per person. Moreover, the current low-carbon electricity generation per person is 439 kWh, lower than the previous peak of 657 kWh per person in 2001. This decline of 218 kWh per person in low-carbon output underscores a critical need for Eswatini to focus on expanding its electricity generation capacity, particularly through clean and sustainable methods, to ensure energy security and support economic development.
Suggestions
To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Eswatini can look to successful regions for guidance. Solar power represents an opportunity for growth, with countries like Lebanon and Cyprus achieving solar contributions of 31% and 23%, respectively. Emulating such regions could significantly boost Eswatini's solar capacity. Nuclear energy also presents a viable path, with nations like France and Ukraine generating more than half of their electricity through nuclear power. By investing in nuclear infrastructure, Eswatini could secure a stable and continuous source of clean energy. Exploring both these avenues can lead to a more resilient and sustainable energy grid, effectively reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fostering long-term economic growth.
History
Historically, Eswatini has experienced a mix of stability and fluctuations in its low-carbon electricity generation. In the early 2000s, the country saw varying changes in biofuels and hydropower production. For instance, biofuel generation increased by 0.5 TWh in 2000 and further by 0.1 TWh in 2006, although there were declines in 2009 and 2011 by 0.1 TWh and 0.2 TWh, respectively. Hydropower experienced minor adjustments, with a notable increase in 2017 by 0.1 TWh following a period of fluctuations in preceding years. Overall, the historical patterns indicate a need for strategic planning to solidify and expand Eswatini's investments in reliable, low-carbon electricity sources, positioning the country for a sustainable energy future.
