Electricity in Maldives in 2023
As of 2023, electricity consumption in the Maldives is heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with more than 90% of electricity generated from these sources. Low-carbon or clean energy constitutes a small but important portion, representing slightly more than 7% of total electricity generated. Within this low-carbon category, solar energy accounts for the entirety of clean electricity generation, highlighting its role in diversifying energy sources, albeit modestly. The overwhelming dependence on fossil fuels underscores a significant challenge for the Maldives as it seeks to transition towards more sustainable energy solutions that align with global climate goals.
Data sources used on this page include EIA and Ember. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Maldives?
Despite the imperative need to advance clean energy, the trend in Maldives' electricity consumption has recently shown a slight decline. The latest data from 2023 indicates an electricity consumption rate of about 1616 kWh per person, which is slightly lower than the record set in 2021. The reduction of 11 kWh per person is disappointing, as it reflects stagnation rather than growth in the nation's electricity narrative. Low-carbon electricity generation holds steady at 114 kWh per person, the same as the previous record from 2022. This stagnation in clean energy advancement stresses the need for proactive measures to address the energy policy's shortcomings and spotlight the potential for enhancing low-carbon electricity generation.
Suggestions
The Maldives can significantly boost its low-carbon electricity generation by learning from regions that have successfully expanded their clean energy portfolios. Countries like Lebanon and Nevada, which generate a substantial portion of their electricity from solar energy—31% and 30%, respectively—serve as excellent examples for the Maldives. Additionally, incorporating nuclear energy into the clean energy mix, as successfully demonstrated by France and Slovakia with their dominant nuclear electricity share, can provide a stable and efficient low-carbon alternative. By leveraging both solar and nuclear technologies, the Maldives can chart a sustainable path forward, reduce its heavy reliance on fossil fuels, and contribute positively to combating climate change and air pollution.
History
Looking back at the history of low-carbon electricity in the Maldives, solar energy has played a consistent but slowly evolving role. The solar electricity generation saw an increase in 2021 with an additional 0.1 TWh compared to the previous year, but unfortunately, this growth halted in the subsequent years of 2022 and 2023, with no further increases recorded. This stagnation in solar energy production over the past few years suggests a lack of sufficient policy incentives or investment in expanding solar infrastructure. A renewed commitment to advancing solar technology and exploring nuclear solutions could catalyze the needed transformation in the Maldives' clean electricity landscape.
