In 2023, Maldives relied on fossil fuels for about 93% of its electricity consumption, while low-carbon electricity accounted for just 7%, entirely from solar. This makes its electricity supply overwhelmingly fossil-based, with clean electricity still playing a small role. Expanding solar and other low-carbon sources would help reduce the climate-changing emissions and air pollution associated with fossil fuels.

Is Electricity Growing in Maldives?

The latest figures do not show growth in electricity consumption per person relative to the historical peak. In 2023, consumption was about 1,620 kWh per person, roughly 54 kWh—or 3%—below the record set in 2018. Low-carbon electricity generation stood at 114 kWh per person, matching its 2022 record rather than increasing. This stagnation is concerning as electrification and growing digital demand require more clean electricity. These per-person figures alone, however, do not establish whether total national electricity consumption grew.

Suggestions

Maldives should prioritize expanding solar on rooftops and suitable sites, supported by storage and stronger island electricity networks. Relevant island examples include Cyprus and the US state of Hawaii, where solar supplies about 23% of electricity—more than three times Maldives’ share. Cape Verde, with wind supplying 14% of electricity, also offers an island example worth studying where local wind conditions are suitable. Nuclear should feature in long-term clean-electricity planning through an assessment of suitable technologies and international partnerships. France generates about two-thirds of its electricity from nuclear, while the United Arab Emirates generates one-fifth, demonstrating nuclear’s potential to support substantial low-carbon electricity supplies.

History

From 2014 through 2023, the supplied historical series records zero annual change in solar electricity generation in every year. At the reported precision, there is therefore no visible increase or decline across that decade; these figures do not mean solar generation itself was zero. Alongside solar’s modest 7% share in 2023, the record underscores the need for a clearer acceleration in clean electricity generation to meet future demand and reduce fossil-fuel dependence.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade