In 2023, the state of electricity consumption in Eswatini reveals a heavy reliance on net imports, which account for more than half of the nation's electricity needs. The country is making strides towards low-carbon energy, with clean sources like hydropower contributing around a fifth (20%) of the total electricity supply. Biofuels also play a significant role, providing roughly 14%, while solar energy contributes about 2%. Fossil fuels, including coal, have a minimal presence in the electricity mix, with less than 2% dependency. The emphasis on low-carbon sources, predominantly hydropower and biofuels, highlights Eswatini's efforts towards a more sustainable energy framework, yet there is still room for growth in solar and other clean energy technologies.
Is Electricity Growing in Eswatini?
Examining the trend in electricity growth, Eswatini's recent consumption stands at 1,211 kWh per person, marking a decline from the peak of 1,549 kWh per person seen in 2007. This decrease of roughly 339 kWh per person suggests a concerning trend in stagnation or decline, which is also seen in the low-carbon segment: from a previous high of 656 kWh per person in 2001 to the current 439 kWh per person, evidencing a 218 kWh per person decrease. This lack of growth is troubling amidst the global need to expand and electrify economies further. The decline in both total and low-carbon electricity generation is an area of worry, reflecting a need for proactive measures to bolster Eswatini's clean electricity supply to ensure future demands are met sustainably.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Eswatini can learn from the successes of other nations that have embraced clean energy, particularly solar and nuclear power. Countries in similar developmental stages or regions, like Morocco with its wind energy sector at 21%, signify potential paths. Additionally, the exponential growth of solar power in Lebanon (31%) and the diverse energy mix strategies seen in Chile (22% solar) and Cyprus (19% solar) could serve as a blueprint for Eswatini. These examples underscore the potential for Eswatini to harness its solar capabilities and explore nuclear power to significantly reduce reliance on imports and fossil fuels, thereby transitioning to a greener, more stable energy future.
History
In the past decades, Eswatini's low-carbon electricity landscape has evolved, particularly through hydropower and biofuels. The early 2000s saw initial advancements in biofuels with a notable increase in 2000 and steady production in the following years. Hydropower experienced fluctuations, with both increases and decreases, marking modest gains in select years like 2005, 2013, 2017, and 2018. Yet, the persistent variability and periodic declines, such as in 2003, 2014, and 2015, signal missed opportunities for consistent growth. The reliance on biofuels also saw ups and downs, as seen with the slight dip in 2009 and more significant reduction in 2011. This historical context highlights the urgent need for a robust strategy focused on expanding solar and nuclear energy, ensuring consistent gains in Eswatini's clean electricity generation for the future.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.