Electricity in Madagascar in 2022

In 2022, Madagascar's electricity consumption reflects a heavy reliance on fossil fuels, with fossil energy contributing approximately 1.5 TWh. The data indicates a significant gap in low-carbon electricity generation, as clean energy production is not highlighted, suggesting it is close to none. With a considerably low electricity generation level compared to the global average of about 3606 watts per person, Malagasy people experience limited access to electricity. This lack can impede economic development, hinder education as well as healthcare infrastructure, and exacerbate energy poverty. The nation’s overdependence on fossil fuels presents environmental concerns such as contributions to climate change and air pollution, underlining the crucial need to adopt and expand cleaner energy sources.

Suggestions

For Madagascar to boost its low-carbon electricity generation, it can glean lessons from countries that have successfully harnessed wind, solar, and nuclear power. Brazil, which shares economic and developmental characteristics with Madagascar, generates about 97 TWh using wind power, indicating the potential for similar growth. India’s significant solar harnessing, at 125 TWh, also provides a model of clean energy expansion. By investing in solar panels and wind turbines, coupled with gradual investment in nuclear technology, Madagascar can build an efficient, sustainable electricity infrastructure. Governments in successful countries like China and the US fostered growth in this sector through targeted policies, financial incentives, and public-private partnerships that Madagascar could emulate to escalate its clean energy production.

History

Historically, Madagascar’s exploration into low-carbon electricity, primarily through hydroelectric power, has seen modest advancements since the early 1980s. Incremental changes occurred in hydroelectric generation, with a notable steady increase from 1981 to 2015, followed by intermittent declines and plateaus in the subsequent years. The stagnation in hydropower growth highlights a crucial opportunity to diversify its clean energy portfolio by incorporating other low-carbon technologies such as solar and wind power. Recent years show a promising uptick in hydroelectric production, particularly in 2018, which can provide a foundation for a broader strategy in expanding sustainable electricity generation across diverse sources.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources