In 2023, electricity consumption in Lebanon showcases a balanced mix between fossil-based and low-carbon sources. A bit more than half of the electricity, approximately 53%, comes from fossil fuels, underlining a continued reliance on traditional energy sources. On the flip side, nearly half of the electricity, about 47%, is generated through low-carbon sources, which include solar power as a major contributor. Impressively, solar energy accounts for almost a third of the entire electricity mix, reflecting a positive shift toward sustainable energy generation. Additionally, hydropower forms a significant part at around 15%, further complementing the nation's clean energy endeavors.
Is Electricity Growing in Lebanon?
Despite the progress in embracing low-carbon options, Lebanon's overall electricity consumption is witnessing a significant decline. In 2023, electricity usage dropped to 783 kWh per person from a peak of 3741 kWh per person in 2019, marking a substantial decrease in overall consumption. However, a brighter outlook is seen in low-carbon electricity generation, which has risen slightly by 24 kWh per person since the previous record in 2022. While this increment in clean electricity is heartening, the drastic reduction in total consumption is alarming and signals urgent alterations are necessary to meet future energy demands effectively.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Lebanon should focus on further expanding its solar infrastructure, given its substantial contribution thus far. Learning from regions with successful low-carbon strategies can provide valuable insights. For example, countries like France and Ukraine heavily rely on nuclear energy, providing over half of their electricity needs sustainably. Similarly, Iowa and South Dakota demonstrate the large-scale viability of wind energy, accounting for more than half of their electricity generation. These models offer Lebanon pathways to diversify its energy mix towards more robust and sustainable figures. Emphasizing both solar and exploring nuclear options can significantly propel Lebanon's green energy progression.
History
Looking back, Lebanon's history in low-carbon electricity tells a tale of fluctuating hydropower generation over the decades. During the early 1980s, there were small declines, and similar reductions were seen in the early 1990s and again in the late 1990s, followed by various downward trends into the 2000s. This pattern of instability required changes, sparking a positive shift in the following years. Notably, around 2019, there was a commendable increase in hydro output. The most significant recent growth in the low-carbon sector has been within solar energy, notably in 2022 with a notable uptick. This highlights the importance of continued efforts in enhancing clean energy sources to stabilize and secure Lebanon’s low-carbon electricity generation for the future.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.