As of 2023, electricity consumption in Mauritius relies heavily on fossil energy, which accounts for more than 80% of the country's electricity generation. Specifically, coal contributes almost a third to this total, illustrating a significant dependence on non-renewable resources. On the other hand, low-carbon sources make up a smaller portion of the electricity mix, with biofuels, solar, and hydropower together contributing nearly one-fifth. Solar power accounts for nearly 5% of electricity generation, while hydropower provides close to 3%. These figures highlight the urgent need for Mauritius to expand its clean energy portfolio, particularly through solar and other sustainable methods, to mitigate the environmental impact of heavy fossil fuel reliance, such as climate change and air pollution.
Data sources used on this page include Ember, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Mauritius?
Electricity consumption per person in Mauritius is on an upward trend, albeit at a slow pace. The latest figures for 2023 indicate that each person consumes about 2568 kWh of electricity annually, surpassing the previous record set in 2019 by 56 kWh/person. However, the share of low-carbon electricity per person has experienced a decline, currently standing at 448 kWh/person—down 98 kWh/person from the high in 2020. This mixed pattern suggests an overall increase in electricity demand, yet simultaneously signals a worrisome drop in the proportion of clean energy sources. Mauritius must urgently address this imbalance to ensure sustainable growth in its electricity sector.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Mauritius can draw inspiration from regions across the globe that effectively utilize solar and nuclear energy. California, with its strong solar infrastructure contributing about a third of its electricity, provides an exemplary model for harnessing solar power. Investing in solar technology could be particularly beneficial for Mauritius given its geographical advantages. Similarly, Mauritius could look into incorporating nuclear energy into its electricity mix, learning from countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy represents more than two-thirds of the total electricity. These nations demonstrate how nuclear power can provide a stable and reliable low-carbon electricity supply, which could significantly aid Mauritius in achieving its clean energy ambitions.
History
Looking back at Mauritius' history of low-carbon electricity generation, particularly with biofuels and hydropower, we observe a modest yet consistent presence from the late 20th century into the 21st century. Biofuels saw alternating growth and decline throughout this period, with minor increments in the 1990s. Hydropower, similarly, experienced subtle fluctuations, with negligible changes in annual generation. The most notable development in recent years is the emergence of solar energy in 2019, albeit at a modest level. However, the path has been far from dramatic, underscoring the need for a more substantial, proactive shift towards large-scale solar and nuclear electricity generation to offset the current fossil-heavy grid. Mauritius must amplify its efforts to foster a clean energy era by expanding successful strategies in nuclear and solar power from more established electricity markets.
