In 2023, the electricity consumption in Laos shows a substantial reliance on low-carbon sources, particularly hydropower. More than three-quarters of Laos' electricity, at approximately 77%, is generated from clean sources, with hydropower alone contributing nearly the entirety of this share at about 76.5%. In contrast, fossil energy, specifically coal, makes up the remaining 23% of electricity generation. This significant reliance on hydropower illustrates Laos' commitment to low-carbon electricity, reducing the environmental impacts typically associated with fossil fuels such as climate change and air pollution.
Is Electricity Growing in Laos?
Electricity consumption in Laos has shown positive growth, reflecting an encouraging trend towards increased utilization of electricity per capita. In 2023, the total electricity consumption reached 6,823 kWh per person, surpassing the previous record of 6,752 kWh per person in 2022. This increase of 71 kWh per person indicates a steady growth in electricity usage. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation has increased from its 2022 record, now reaching 5,234 kWh per person, which marks an increase of 93 kWh per person. Such growth is promising and necessary to meet future demands, especially as the world continues to electrify more sectors and expand AI technologies.
Suggestions
To further augment low-carbon electricity generation, Laos can draw inspiration from other regions that have successfully harnessed diverse low-carbon sources. Expanding nuclear and solar energy presents a viable opportunity. For example, countries like France and Slovakia have shown remarkable success with nuclear energy, generating approximately 69% and 64% of their electricity from it, respectively. Meanwhile, solar energy has proven effective in regions like Lebanon, where solar accounts for about 31% of electricity generation. By diversifying its low-carbon portfolio to include nuclear and solar alongside hydropower, Laos can further strengthen its commitment to sustainable electricity.
History
Historically, Laos' low-carbon electricity generation, primarily from hydropower, has experienced varied growth and challenges. In the late 1990s and into the early 2000s, hydropower generation mostly increased, evidenced by considerable growth in 1999 and 2000 with increases of 0.5 TWh and 1 TWh, respectively. However, fluctuations occurred, such as decreases in 1987, 2003, and 2009. Significant growth phases include 2010 with 5 TWh and 2011 with a rise of 4.5 TWh. Recent years have seen impressive gains, like 8.8 TWh in 2020 and continuous growth from 2021 to 2023. This history underscores the potential for sustained growth in the country's clean electricity sector, especially by complementing hydropower with nuclear and solar initiatives.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.