Kyrgyzstan's electricity sector in 2024 is heavily reliant on low-carbon sources, with clean energy contributing more than three-quarters of the total electricity supply. Specifically, hydropower dominates the low-carbon category, generating about 78% of the country's electricity. Meanwhile, fossil energy makes up a little over 12% of the total consumption, with coal and gas being the primary contributors. Net imports add another 10% to the energy mix, indicating a level of dependence on external sources to meet the country's electricity needs. While the dominance of hydropower is commendable, the reliance on fossil fuels for over a tenth of the electricity consumption suggests room for improvement, especially in terms of environmental impact.

Is Electricity Growing in Kyrgyzstan?

The electricity consumption in Kyrgyzstan, in terms of per capita usage, is currently not growing and remains well below its historic peak. The latest figure stands at 1101 kWh per person, a significant drop of 2426 kWh per person from the high recorded in 1990. Similarly, the consumption of low-carbon electricity has decreased from its peak, with 2024 figures at 855 kWh per person compared to 2562 kWh per person in 1996. This downward trend in both total and low-carbon electricity consumption is worrying, as it reflects stagnation at a time when energy demand should be increasing in response to economic growth and the electrification of various sectors.

Suggestions

To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Kyrgyzstan can look to successful regions that have effectively harnessed solar and nuclear energy. For instance, France and Slovakia both derive more than 65% of their electricity from nuclear power, showcasing the potential for nuclear to be a reliable and substantial energy source. Similarly, regions like Nevada and California have made significant strides in solar energy, generating over 30% of their electricity from solar installations. Adopting similar strategies can help Kyrgyzstan diversify its clean energy portfolio and reduce its dependency on hydropower alone. By investing in nuclear and solar energy, Kyrgyzstan can ensure sustainable growth in electricity generation and meet future energy demands more effectively.

History

Historically, Kyrgyzstan's low-carbon electricity generation has been characterized by significant fluctuations in hydropower. The early 1990s saw some variability, including a contraction in 1992, but also periods of growth such as a substantial increase in 1994 and a modest rise in 1996. The late 1990s and early 2000s experienced similar fluctuations, with noticeable declines in 1997, 1998, 2001, and 2002, interspersed with increases in 1999 and 2003. More recent years have shown continued volatility, culminating in a sharp drop of 4.6 TWh in 2024. This pattern underscores the need for more stable and diverse low-carbon energy sources to complement hydropower, such as solar and nuclear, ensuring resilience and sustainability in the nation's electricity supply.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade