In 2023, Laos relies significantly on low-carbon electricity, with over three-quarters of its electricity generated through clean methods. Hydropower is the dominant force, contributing almost the entire low-carbon share at nearly 77% of total electricity generation. On the other hand, fossil fuels, notably coal, account for the remaining 23% of the electricity supply. This underscores a clear separation in Laos's electricity landscape, where clean energy sources substantially outpace fossil fuels. This significant reliance on low-carbon electricity is a positive indicator of Laos's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and moving towards a sustainable future.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Laos?
Electricity usage in Laos has witnessed a modest increase recently. The per capita consumption has risen from a previous high of 6752 kWh per person in 2022 to 6823 kWh per person in 2023, reflecting a growth of 71 kWh per person. Concurrently, the generation of low-carbon electricity has seen an even more robust increase, now at 5234 kWh per person, up by 93 kWh from the 5141 kWh recorded in 2022. This growth in both total and clean electricity highlights a positive trend and indicates the country's ongoing efforts to enhance its electricity infrastructure and expand its low-carbon generation capabilities, which aligns with global demands for sustainable energy solutions.
Suggestions
Looking to further boost its low-carbon electricity production, Laos could glean valuable insights from other regions that have achieved notable success in this area. For instance, Denmark and Iowa are outstanding examples in wind energy, deriving over half of their electricity from wind power. Although nuclear energy is less prevalent in Laos, other nations like France and Slovakia demonstrate the vast potential of this clean energy source, with nuclear accounting for 70% and 66% of their electricity, respectively. Additionally, regions like Nevada and California excel in harnessing solar energy, with approximately a third of their electricity from this source. By integrating solar and potentially exploring nuclear energy, Laos could further diversify and strengthen its clean electricity portfolio.
History
Historically, Laos has experienced a dynamic trajectory in low-carbon electricity generation primarily centered on hydropower. The early 2000s marked a major increase in hydropower, especially in 2010 and 2011, which brought significant growth—5.1 TWh and 4.5 TWh, respectively. The pattern of growth continued intermittently throughout the decade, with a notable surge in 2020 generating an impressive 8.8 TWh. Recent years, particularly 2021 and 2022, sustained this upward momentum with increases of 4.4 TWh and 5.8 TWh, respectively. By 2023, although the increase was somewhat subdued at 1.3 TWh, it still signifies ongoing development in exploiting hydropower resources. Overall, this historical record illustrates Laos's strong trajectory of boosting low-carbon electricity generation primarily through hydropower, highlighting an ongoing commitment that can continue to be built upon.
