As of 2024, Malaysia's electricity consumption predominantly relies on fossil sources, with about more than three-quarters of its electricity generated by these means. Coal and gas dominate the fossil category, accounting for almost half and one-third of the total electricity consumption, respectively. Conversely, low-carbon sources contribute a bit over one-fifth to the overall electricity consumption. Within low-carbon sources, hydropower is the most significant, contributing almost a fifth, followed by negligible figures from biofuels and solar, each staying below 3%. The reliance on oil is even more minimal, contributing to close to none of the total mix.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Malaysia?
Observing the trends in electricity consumption in Malaysia reveals a concerning stagnation rather than the sought-after growth. In 2024, the total electricity usage stands at 5224 kWh per person, which is a decline from the peak recorded in 2019 of 5338 kWh per person. This reflects a drop, countering expectations of continuous growth to meet increasing needs for electrification. However, Malaysia's embrace of low-carbon electricity generation shows a narrowing but hopeful growth, with an increase in low-carbon generated electricity from 1097 kWh per person in 2022 to 1162 in 2024, marking a modest progress of 65 kWh per person in embracing sustainable and clean energy options.
Suggestions
For Malaysia to bolster its low-carbon electricity production, learning from other regions is imperative. Countries like Nevada and Lebanon have succeeded with solar penetration reaching a third of their electricity supply, offering a clear model for Malaysia's sunny climate. Additionally, championing nuclear generation can substantially boost low-carbon electricity, as demonstrated by countries like South Korea, where nuclear energy contributes almost a third, showcasing a robust mixed approach. Expansion in solar and investments in nuclear can provide Malaysia with stable, clean power crucially needed to mitigate the drawbacks of fossil fuels, including climate change and air pollution, and to meet future energy demands driven by technological advancements and electrification.
History
The historical trajectory of Malaysia’s low-carbon electricity generation reveals periodic surges primarily through hydropower, which saw notable increases in years like 1984, 1994, and significantly throughout the 2010s. The past decade was marked by substantial augmentations, with notable spikes in 2016 and 2017, contributing an impressive amount to the overall clean energy output. This period marked a focused inclination toward biofuels beginning in 2009 followed by a noteworthy push in 2022. Collectively, these movements highlight Malaysia's ongoing efforts and potential growth trajectory in the low-carbon sector, emphasizing the importance of continuous investments and innovations in hydropower and newer sustainable technologies like solar to envision a sustainable energy future.
