In 2023, electricity consumption in Eswatini continues to rely heavily on net imports, accounting for almost two-thirds of its total electricity. Low-carbon energy sources supply a substantial portion, contributing more than a third of the electricity mix. Among these clean sources, hydropower leads with around 20% of the supply, followed by biofuels at about 14%. Solar power, despite its potential, only represents a small fraction of the energy slate, providing a mere 2%. Fossil energy, primarily coal, constitutes a minor 1.3% of electricity consumption, highlighting Eswatini's significant dependence on imported electricity, which is an area that deserves particular attention to increase energy independence and reduce emissions over time.

Is Electricity Growing in Eswatini?

Looking at trends over time, electricity consumption per person in Eswatini has decreased since its peak in 2007, which stood at 1550 kWh/person, currently down to 1211 kWh/person, a drop of 339 kWh/person. Low-carbon electricity has similarly seen a reduction, from 657 kWh/person in 2001 to 439 kWh/person today, declining by 218 kWh/person. These figures suggest a worrying stagnation in overall electricity consumption and clean energy generation per capita over the years, which is concerning given the global need for increased clean electricity to support modernization and combat climate change. Eswatini needs to prioritize boosting energy consumption and generation, especially through low-carbon sources, to keep pace with demand and environmental targets.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Eswatini could look to emulate strategies from successful regions rich in solar or nuclear capacity. For instance, France derives a strong majority of its electricity from nuclear energy – a robust and reliable source of clean electricity. Solar power is another area ripe for development, as seen in regions like Nevada and California, where solar constitutes up to 35% and 31% of electricity, respectively. By investing in and building capacity for both solar and potentially nuclear energy in the future, Eswatini can significantly enhance its clean energy mix, thereby reducing its heavy reliance on imported electricity and fossil fuels, and ensuring a sustainable and independent energy future.

History

Historically, Eswatini's low-carbon electricity sector has seen various fluctuations. In the early 2000s, biofuels made minor but consistent contributions, with some growth and eventual decline. Hydropower underwent modest changes, experiencing both growth and reduction across the years, with recent stabilizing efforts yielding small increases in generation in the latter part of the 2010s. While the sector has faced challenges, these historical patterns highlight potential opportunities. Focusing on stable sources like hydropower while integrating solar, akin to several successful global examples, could prevent the declines of the past and pave the way for a more robust low-carbon energy profile in Eswatini's future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade