Electricity in Israel in 2023
As of 2023, Israel's electricity consumption heavily leans on fossil fuels, with approximately 89% derived from such sources. Natural gas is the predominant source, contributing to more than two-thirds of the electricity mix. Coal accounts for nearly 18%, further emphasizing the reliance on fossil-based energy. On the other hand, low-carbon energy sources comprise about 10% of the electricity usage, with solar energy making up the majority of this portion at approximately 9%. The presence of solar energy in Israel's electricity mix highlights a growing and promising shift towards cleaner energy, although there is substantial room for increasing the low-carbon share.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Israel?
Regarding the growth of electricity in Israel, a glance at per capita consumption indicates a slight decline. The current consumption sits at 8039 kWh per person, a drop from the 2019 peak of 8285 kWh per person. This downward trend in overall electricity consumption is concerning, especially when considering the increasing global demand for electricity driven by electrification and technological advancements. However, there's a silver lining in the realm of low-carbon energy, where electricity generation has reached 845 kWh per person, marking a significant increase from the previous high set in 2022. The growth in clean electricity reflects a positive direction, but it is crucial for the overall electricity consumption to also rise sustainably.
Suggestions
Israel can accelerate its low-carbon electricity generation by drawing inspiration from successful regions worldwide. To expand its solar capacity, Israel could look to California and Nevada, where solar generation constitutes 29% and 33% of electricity, respectively. These regions showcase the feasibility and potential of harnessing abundant solar resources, similar to what Israel possesses. Additionally, Israel should consider nuclear energy, as exemplified by countries like France and Slovakia, where over two-thirds of electricity is generated sustainably. By investing in solar and nuclear technologies, Israel can substantially decrease its carbon footprint and enhance energy security.
History
In the 2010s, Israel saw modest yet consistent growth in solar energy production, with increases every year. In the latter half of the 2010s, solar output notably rose, particularly in 2019, which saw a tremendous jump by 1 TWh. Wind energy also entered the scene in the mid-2010s but has experienced some fluctuations. The early 2020s continued this positive growth trajectory, with significant expansions in solar and a consistent increase in wind contribution. The historical advances in solar and wind energy highlight Israel's ongoing commitment to enhancing its clean electricity supply, paving the way for a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future.
