Electricity consumption in Kiribati by 2022 remains quite specific and tells an interesting story about the country's energy landscape. With a total electricity consumption of around 307 kWh per person, it is clear that Kiribati's electricity usage is significantly lower than the global average of 3649 kWh per person. Impressively, more than a quarter of this consumption comes from low-carbon sources like solar energy, accounting for approximately 77 kWh per person. In contrast, the remaining electricity demand is fulfilled primarily by fossil fuels, which contribute to climate change and air pollution, a concerning prospect for an island nation already vulnerable to rising sea levels and extreme weather. The relatively low levels of electricity generation could result in limited access to essential services and hinder economic growth, posing challenges in education, healthcare, and industrial development.
Data sources used on this page include Ember. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Kiribati?
Looking into whether electricity consumption is growing in Kiribati reveals some concerns. The electricity consumption in 2022 was 16 kWh per person lower than the record of 323 kWh/person set in 2019, suggesting a decline in consumption over the recent years. Furthermore, clean electricity from solar sources also saw a slight decline, decreasing by 4 kWh per person from the 81 kWh/person achieved in 2019. The reduction in both total and low-carbon electricity generation is disheartening, implying potential setbacks in the country's efforts to expand its energy supply and transition to cleaner energy sources. This trend is worrisome, as increasing demand for electricity is essential to meet the growing needs of a modernizing society.
Suggestions
For Kiribati to successfully increase its low-carbon electricity generation, expanding solar energy capacity should be a primary focus. Solar energy already makes an impactful contribution to the country's electricity generation, showing significant potential for growth. Kiribati can learn from regions like India and Brazil, which have shown substantial increases in solar and wind energy generation respectively. Additionally, looking towards regions like the People's Republic of China for solar and wind, and the United States for nuclear energy, can provide insightful strategies and technologies, as these regions lead in clean energy generation. By prioritizing solar and exploring potential partnerships for future development in nuclear energy, Kiribati can aim to increase its sustainable electricity generation, fostering a greener and more resilient energy future.
History
Looking back at the history of low-carbon electricity in Kiribati, the data shows a consistent but stagnant generation from solar sources over recent years, with no notable changes from 2019 to 2022. This stagnant period in solar energy growth highlights an area needing attention and action. While maintaining a level of clean electricity is commendable, failing to expand this capacity amid growing environmental challenges and energy demands reflects missed opportunities. Encouraging growth in low-carbon energy sources is essential, and Kiribati would benefit from taking inspiration from other regions that have successfully increased their clean electricity through dedicated expansion efforts.
