Electricity in Eswatini in 2023

As of 2023, Eswatini's electricity consumption heavily relies on net imports, with over 60% of its electricity being imported. This dependency highlights a significant gap in domestic electricity generation. Almost a third of the country's electricity needs are met through low-carbon energy sources. Specifically, hydropower contributes about 20%, while biofuels add another 14% and solar energy accounts for a modest 2%. In stark contrast, reliance on fossil energy in Eswatini stands at a mere 1%, with coal being the sole contributor in this category. This minimal use of fossil fuels is positive for both climate change mitigation and air quality, emphasizing the potential benefits of further developing clean energy infrastructure.

Suggestions

For Eswatini to increase its low-carbon electricity generation, the nation could look to successful examples from around the world. Nuclear energy has proven to be an effective clean power source in countries like France and Slovakia, with almost 70% and over 60% of their electricity generated from nuclear, respectively. Meanwhile, wind energy has transformed Denmark’s energy landscape, accounting for more than half of its electricity. Similarly, Lebanon has enjoyed considerable success with solar energy, generating over 30% of its electricity this way. Eswatini could potentially explore these low-carbon pathways by investing in nuclear and expanding its solar capacity, which would significantly reduce its dependence on electricity imports and enhance energy self-sufficiency.

History

Historically, the development of low-carbon electricity in Eswatini has seen various stages. During the early 2000s, biofuels saw a modest increase, contributing 0.5 TWh in 2000, while hydropower experienced slight fluctuations with minor increases in 2005 and 2013. However, the landscape wasn’t without setbacks, as seen in the biofuels decrease in 2009 and a series of hydro reductions in 2014 and 2015. In recent years, since 2017, efforts appear to be better coordinated with hydropower again showing growth. These patterns underscore the importance of consistent and strategic growth in clean electricity generation to enhance energy independence and set Eswatini on a sustainable path forward.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources