In 2022, Madagascar's electricity consumption revealed a significant reliance on fossil energy, contributing 1.71 TWh of the total electricity generated. Meanwhile, low-carbon sources appeared to be underrepresented in the energy mix, illustrating a dire need for a transition towards cleaner alternatives. Each person in Madagascar consumed around 87 kWh of electricity annually, which is a small fraction of the global average of 3649 kWh per person. This substantial disparity indicates that Madagascar faces challenges typical of low electricity generation, such as restricted economic opportunities, limitations in healthcare services, and inadequate educational resources, all of which could hinder socio-economic development.
Data sources used on this page include EIA and Ember. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Madagascar?
When looking at Madagascar's electricity growth, there is a marginal but positive movement. Comparing recent electricity consumption levels, the 2022 annual average consumption showed a slight increase to 87 kWh per person from 85 kWh per person in 2021. Though this change is modest, it indicates slow progress. However, low-carbon electricity generation has unfortunately seen a decline, with a decrease from a record of 39 kWh per person in 2015 to just 31 kWh per person in 2022. This decrease is concerning and reflects a setback in the journey towards sustainable energy production.
Suggestions
Madagascar has the potential to enhance its low-carbon electricity generation by learning from regions that have successfully developed solar and nuclear capacities. For instance, countries like Brazil have leveraged solar power to produce 81 TWh of electricity, while South Africa has made advancements with solar generating 21 TWh. Additionally, countries like France, with its significant nuclear output of 369 TWh, and the United States, producing 781 TWh, showcase the potential for nuclear energy. Embracing these clean energy sources will be pivotal for Madagascar as it strives to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility, ultimately reducing its reliance on fossil fuels, which greatly contribute to climate change and air pollution.
History
Historically, Madagascar's low-carbon electricity efforts were primarily driven by hydropower, with incremental increases of 0.1 TWh noted sporadically from the early 1980s through 2021. The significant changes occurred mostly in years like 2018, which saw an increase of 0.2 TWh. However, some years experienced declines, such as in 2017 and 2019 where reductions were evident. Regrettably, the more recent years have shown stagnation, with no reported increases in either solar or biofuels in 2021 and 2022. To regain momentum and ensure a reliable and sustainable electricity supply, Madagascar must revitalize its commitment to low-carbon sources, particularly solar and nuclear energy.
