Electricity in Madagascar in 2022

In 2022, Madagascar's electricity consumption was marked by a noticeable reliance on fossil fuels, with around 1.49 TWh generated from them. The country produces more than half of its electricity via low-carbon sources, particularly hydro power. However, its electricity consumption per person is significantly below the global average of 432 watts per person. Such low levels of electricity generation can severely constrain economic development, quality of life, and access to modern amenities for the population, leading to issues like limited healthcare, education, and industrial growth.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Madagascar can look to successful examples from various countries. For instance, Brazil and India both generate substantial amounts of electricity from wind and solar, environments which Madagascar shares in terms of abundant sunlight and coastal resources. Brazil generates nearly 100 TWh from wind alone, while India produces more than 100 TWh from solar power. Additionally, the global leader in nuclear energy, the United States, produces over 700 TWh from nuclear sources, proving that substantial expansion of nuclear energy can provide reliable, sustainable electricity. Madagascar could therefore consider a diversified strategy, incorporating wind, solar, and nuclear options to significantly boost its low-carbon electricity production.

History

Historically, Madagascar’s low-carbon electricity generation has shown sporadic growth, primarily centered on hydro power. In the 1980s, there were periodic increases of about 0.1 TWh each in 1981 and 1984. Similar modest increases continued through the 1990s, with additional boosts in 1995 and 1997. The early 21st century saw minor fluctuations, including small gains in 2003, 2007, and a few years in the 2010s, such as 2012 and 2014. Notably, there were years of decline in 2016 and 2017, followed by increased generation in 2018, and further decreases in the next two years. By 2021, hydroelectric output had stabilized but did not show significant growth, indicating a need for strategic intervention to elevate Madagascar's clean energy production.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources