In Kiribati, electricity consumption as of 2022 stands at approximately 307 kWh per person, which is minuscule compared to the global average of 3,781 kWh per person. This discrepancy highlights a significant gap between Kiribati and more energy-intricate regions. Almost a third of Kiribati's electricity is from low-carbon sources, specifically solar energy, contributing to a cleaner energy profile. The reliance on fossil fuels, however, still makes up the bulk of electricity generation, underscoring the potential environmental impacts such as air pollution and climate change. Limited electricity availability in Kiribati can hinder economic growth, access to modern technology, and improve living standards, as electricity is critical for various sectors like healthcare, education, and industry.
Is Electricity Growing in Kiribati?
The trend of electricity consumption in Kiribati indicates a slight decline as of 2022, downticking by 16 kWh/person compared to the previous record high in 2019. Low-carbon electricity, primarily solar, has also experienced a minor dip of 4 kWh/person from its record levels in 2019. This stagnation emphasizes the urgent need for investment in and expansion of clean energy infrastructure to reverse the declining trend and meet existing and future energy demands. Without decisive action, Kiribati risks lagging behind in technological and socio-economic advancements facilitated by adequate electricity access.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Kiribati should consider amplifying its solar energy installations, building upon its existing strengths in this clean energy sector. Learning from successful regions like the People's Republic of China, which has achieved substantial energy outputs from both solar and nuclear power, Kiribati could also explore partnerships and investments from countries excelling in these technologies. Moreover, regions like India and Australia show the viability of solar power under favorable conditions, suggesting that Kiribati, with consistent solar irradiance, is well-positioned to increase solar capacity further. Emulating such regions, Kiribati can pave its way towards a sustainable and secure energy future, reducing its dependency on fossil fuels.
History
Reflecting on the history of low-carbon electricity in Kiribati, particularly over the past four years, reveals a consistent but static contribution from solar energy, with zero TWh change annually. This constant output since 2019 underscores an opportunity missed for growth and advancement in the green electricity sector. While maintaining any capacity is important, the absence of growth is disappointing, especially when taking into account the pressing need for a transition from fossil fuels to sustainable energy. To improve its sustainability trajectory and electrification, Kiribati should break this plateau by investing in new technologies and expanding existing solar infrastructures.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.