In 2023, Eswatini's electricity consumption is majorly dependent on imports, with over 60% of its electricity being sourced from external providers. A significant proportion of the country's electricity originates from low-carbon sources. Hydropower is the largest among these, accounting for roughly 20% of the electricity mix, followed by biofuels contributing about 14%, and solar power making up a modest 2%. On the other hand, reliance on fossil fuels is relatively negligible, contributing just over 1%, specifically from coal. This highlights Eswatini's current leaning towards low-carbon sources, although the overwhelming dependency on imports indicates room for improvement in self-generated clean energy production.
Is Electricity Growing in Eswatini?
Despite a past peak in 2007 where electricity consumption reached 1550 kWh per person, Eswatini's usage has experienced a decrease, dropping to 1211 kWh per person by 2023. This represents a decline of about 340 kWh per person. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation has diminished from a peak of 657 kWh per person in 2001 to 439 kWh per person in 2023, indicating a reduction of roughly 220 kWh per person. This dip in both overall electricity consumption and low-carbon electricity generation is concerning, suggesting a reduction in the energy independence and sustainability of Eswatini's electricity sector over the years.
Suggestions
To invigorate its low-carbon electricity generation, Eswatini could draw lessons from countries that have successfully implemented solar and nuclear energy strategies. Lebanon and Greece, for instance, generate a substantial 31% and 26% of their electricity from solar energy respectively, demonstrating viable models of solar energy adoption. From a nuclear perspective, France leads with a remarkable 69% of its electricity coming from nuclear power, showcasing the potential for sustainable and reliable electricity through nuclear energy. By developing both nuclear and solar power capacity, Eswatini can cultivate a more diverse and robust low-carbon electricity portfolio, reducing reliance on imports and fostering energy independence.
History
Reflecting on Eswatini's historical trends in low-carbon electricity, the early 2000s were characterized by notable activity in biofuels and hydropower. However, the changes were incremental, with biofuels seeing a consistent pattern until a slight decline in 2011. Hydropower also experienced fluctuations, with some minor declines during the late 2000s and the early 2010s, although there were occasional periods of growth. As we moved into the later part of the last decade, hydro began to stabilize, with small increases observed in 2013 and 2017. These patterns indicate a slow yet steady trajectory toward stable low-carbon electricity sources. However, greater emphasis on both solar and nuclear energy can provide the needed momentum for Eswatini to achieve a cleaner and more self-reliant electricity future.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.