In 2022, the electricity consumption in Macao SAR China predominantly relied on imported electricity, accounting for almost 91% of the total. Fossil energy contributed a minor share, making up approximately 5% of electricity consumption, of which gas was just under 5%. Low-carbon energy sources were responsible for just shy of 4% of the electricity, with biofuels covering this entire low-carbon portion. This presents a considerable opportunity for Macao to transition towards more sustainable energy sources by increasing its use of clean energy technologies like solar or nuclear power, which are absent from the current energy mix.

Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and Enerdata. More about data sources →

Is Electricity Growing in Macao SAR China?

Electricity consumption in Macao has experienced a decline, indicating a need for reinvigorated efforts to boost electricity generation, particularly from clean sources. The latest figures show a total electricity consumption of 7610 kWh per person, which is a decrease of about 1000 kWh per person from the 2019 peak. Similarly, the generation of low-carbon electricity has also decreased, with the latest measure at 284 kWh per person, which is down by almost 40 kWh per person from its high in 2015. These regressions highlight the importance of adopting more proactive strategies to improve low-carbon energy generation and overall electricity consumption.

Suggestions

Macao SAR China can enhance its low-carbon electricity generation by incorporating solar and nuclear technologies, learning from successful regions. For instance, France generates about two-thirds of its electricity from nuclear power, demonstrating the potential of this clean source. Similarly, Arizona and Nevada are examples of states that have embraced solar power effectively, with significant portions of their electricity—around 30%—coming from solar energy. By investing in solar and nuclear facilities, Macao could significantly reduce its reliance on imported electricity and fossil fuels, achieving both environmental and energy security benefits.

History

Historically, Macao SAR China's journey with low-carbon electricity has been limited and primarily centered around biofuels. In 2015, there was an increase of 0.2 TWh in biofuel-generated electricity, with a similar increase occurring again in 2018. However, from 2019 onwards, there has been stagnation, with no new increments in biofuel energy generation through to 2022. This stagnation raises concerns about the region's commitment to advancing low-carbon electricity. It underscores the need for a strategic policy shift towards more dynamic low-carbon energy sources like solar and nuclear power, which have demonstrated considerable success in various parts of the world.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade