In 2024, Malaysia's electricity consumption is predominantly reliant on fossil fuels, with more than three-quarters of its electricity coming from such sources. Specifically, coal and gas are the key players, making up nearly 44% and 33% of the national electricity mix, respectively. On the other hand, low-carbon energy sources, also defined as clean energy, account for just over 22% of electricity consumption. Hydropower is the dominant low-carbon source, contributing over 18%, while biofuels, solar, and oil collectively contribute a minor share of this category, close to none when compared individually to the fossil fuels.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Malaysia?
The electricity consumption in Malaysia appears to have slightly declined from its peak in 2019, with the latest (2024) per capita consumption standing at 5224 kWh, a decrease from the previous record of 5338 kWh. This stagnation is concerning, especially as global trends move towards increased electrification and demands due to technological advancements like AI. However, there's good news on the low-carbon front, where electricity generation has seen some growth. The latest figures for low-carbon electricity show an increase to 1162 kWh per person, up by 65 kWh from the previous record in 2022. This indicates a positive shift towards embracing more sustainable energy solutions.
Suggestions
To further increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Malaysia should look towards successful regions that excel in clean energy technologies like solar and nuclear. Countries like France and Slovakia demonstrate the potential of nuclear energy, with it making up more than two-thirds of their electricity generation. Similarly, solar power can be a significant asset as evidenced by Lebanon and Nevada, who have made solar a substantial part of their electricity mix. Emulating these leading countries by investing in and expanding solar and nuclear facilities could help Malaysia transition away from fossil fuels, reducing climate change effects and air pollution while meeting future energy demands more sustainably.
History
Historically, Malaysia experienced varied developments in its low-carbon electricity generation. Among notable trends, hydropower has seen both growth and declines over the years, with significant increases in 1999 and later in 2014, 2016, and 2017, though also experiencing occasional dips such as in 1990 and 1996. Biomass saw a substantial introduction in 2009, and more recently in 2022, emphasizing small but important incremental growths in Malaysia's clean electricity portfolio. These historical advances hint at an evolving energy landscape, albeit with the need for more consistent and accelerating growth in sustainable energy capabilities to ensure a resilient energy future for Malaysia.
