Electricity in Libya in 2022

As of 2022, Libya's electricity consumption is overwhelmingly dependent on fossil fuels, accounting for about 97% of the total. Natural gas alone constitutes nearly 70% of the electricity generated, while net imports contribute about 3%. The reliance on clean, low-carbon energy sources is close to none, which is concerning from both environmental and sustainability perspectives. This heavy dependence on fossil fuels not only contributes to climate change but also exposes the country to the volatility of fossil fuel markets.

Suggestions

Libya can look to other countries for strategies to increase its low-carbon electricity generation. For instance, France generates almost 70% of its electricity from nuclear energy, demonstrating the viability of nuclear as a primary low-carbon source. Additionally, Denmark produces over 60% of its electricity from wind, highlighting the potential of wind power in similar climates. North African countries like Morocco are also making strides, with wind contributing about 15% to their electricity mix. Likewise, Libya can capitalize on its abundant solar resources, drawing inspiration from nearby Yemen, where solar accounts for 20% of electricity generation. By diversifying its energy portfolio with nuclear, wind, and solar, Libya can significantly reduce its carbon footprint and enhance energy security.

History

Looking back at Libya’s history of low-carbon electricity generation, it is evident that there has been almost no progress in this area. From 2004 through 2022, solar energy generation has remained at zero terawatt-hours (TWh) each year. This lack of growth highlights the missed opportunities for utilizing Libya's vast solar potential. In the last two decades, there have been no substantial efforts to incorporate clean energy into the national grid. This stagnant history underscores the urgent need for Libya to adopt more aggressive policies and investments in low-carbon electricity generation to secure a sustainable and environmentally friendly future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources