Electricity in Maldives in 2023
The current state of electricity consumption in the Maldives is heavily dominated by fossil fuels, accounting for slightly more than 90% of the total electricity generation. Meanwhile, low-carbon sources, specifically solar energy, contribute a modest share, making up just over 7% of the electricity mix. This small reliance on low-carbon energy sources is concerning in light of the urgent need to transition away from fossil fuels, which are a leading cause of climate change and air pollution. By increasing its share of clean electricity, particularly solar and potentially nuclear energy in the future, the Maldives can better align its energy sector with global sustainability goals.
Is Electricity Growing in Maldives?
Despite the critical importance of expanding electricity infrastructure, particularly low-carbon sources, the Maldives saw a slight decline in overall electricity consumption recently. In 2023, the average electricity usage dropped to about 1,616 kWh per person, down from the 2018 high of 1,670 kWh. It is concerning that this decrease corresponds with a stagnation in low-carbon electricity production per person, which remains unchanged since 2022 at 114 kWh. This stagnation in clean electricity growth discourages the momentum necessary for building a robust green energy future for the nation.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, the Maldives could draw insights from various global regions thriving in solar, wind, and nuclear energy. Notably, countries like Lebanon and Greece have invested substantially in solar, achieving more than 20% electricity generation from solar. Similarly, Denmark demonstrates the vast potential of wind energy, achieving over half of its electricity from this source. Globally, nuclear energy remains a cornerstone of low-carbon electricity generation, with countries like France achieving a clean electricity mix dominated by nuclear power. Emulating such effective strategies by tapping into abundant solar potential, and potentially exploring nuclear energy options, can significantly advance the Maldives' journey towards a more sustainable electricity generation profile.
History
Historically, the Maldives has yet to substantially develop its low-carbon electricity capacity. From 2014 to 2023, solar energy generation remained static each year, showing no increase. This continuous lack of growth reveals a worrying absence of investment or development in clean electricity infrastructure over nearly a decade. To alter this trajectory, the Maldives must undertake determined strategic initiatives to encourage and facilitate the development of solar and nuclear energy technologies, setting the stage for a future driven by green and sustainable energy.