Electricity in Malaysia in 2023
Global Ranking:
#118
19.2% #132 Low-carbon electricity
5346.42
kWh #58 Generation / person
In 2023, Malaysia's electricity consumption remains heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with over 80% of its electricity generated from such sources. Coal and gas dominate the fossil fuel category, contributing 43% and 37% respectively. In contrast, low-carbon energy makes up a modest portion of the electricity mix, collectively accounting for just over 19%. Within this clean energy segment, hydropower is the leading source at almost 17%, and solar power contributes close to 2%. The reliance on fossil fuels points to significant challenges related to climate change and air pollution, which necessitates a shift towards more sustainable electricity generation.
Suggestions
Malaysia can boost its low-carbon electricity generation by drawing lessons from countries that have achieved significant success in this area. France is a standout example, generating a remarkable 67% of its electricity from nuclear energy. Similarly, Slovakia, Ukraine, and Switzerland have also prioritized nuclear power, contributing 60%, 55%, and 44% respectively. On the other hand, Malaysia can look to Denmark and Uruguay for their impressive wind energy achievements, generating 61% and 36% of their electricity, respectively. By investing in nuclear and expanding its wind and solar capacities, Malaysia can emulate these successful models and significantly reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.
History
Malaysia's journey towards low-carbon electricity has seen various shifts over the decades. In the mid-1980s, there were modest increases in hydropower generation; 1984 saw an increase of 1.7 TWh, followed by a smaller gain in 1987. However, the early to mid-1990s experienced fluctuations, including declines in 1990 and the latter half of the decade. Significant progress began in the late 1990s, with a notable increase in 1999. The 2000s were characterized by intermittent growth, particularly in 2008, and a stable phase in the early 2010s with steady yearly increments from 2011 to 2014. A substantial leap occurred in 2016 and 2017, with hydropower increasing significantly by 6.1 TWh and 6.8 TWh, respectively. The recent decade witnessed growth in solar power, starting in 2019, complemented by continued expansion in hydropower. This history demonstrates Malaysia's growing commitment to expanding its low-carbon energy sources, essential for a sustainable future.
Electricity Imports and Exports
Balance of Trade
Data Sources
For the year 1985 the data sources are
Energy Institute
and
IEA (imports/exports).
For the year 1986 the data source is
Energy Institute.
For the years 1987 to 1989 the data sources are
Energy Institute
and
IEA (imports/exports).
For the years 1990 to 1992 the data sources are
Energy Institute
and
IEA (imports/exports).
For the years 1993 to 1994 the data source is
IEA.
For the years 1995 to 1996 the data sources are
Energy Institute
and
IEA (imports/exports).
For the year 1997 the data source is
IEA.
For the year 1998 the data sources are
Energy Institute
and
IEA (imports/exports).
For the years 1999 to 2001 the data source is
Energy Institute.
For the years 2002 to 2010 the data sources are
Energy Institute
and
IEA (imports/exports).
For the years 2011 to 2013 the data source is
IEA.
For the years 2014 to 2016 the data source is
Ember.
For the year 2017 the data sources are
Energy Institute
and
IEA (imports/exports).
For the years 2018 to 2019 the data sources are
Energy Institute
and
IEA (imports/exports).
For the years 2020 to 2023 the data source is
Ember.