Electricity in Mongolia in 2024
In Mongolia, fossil energy remains the predominant source of electricity, with coal making up a significant 68% of the total electricity production. When combined with other fossil sources, fossil energy accounts for more than 70% of the electricity consumed. Low-carbon energy sources, however, account for close to 8% of the total electricity generation, with wind contributing around 5% and solar around 2%. Additionally, Mongolia relies on net imports for about 21% of its electricity needs, highlighting a substantial dependency on external energy sources. The relatively small share of low-carbon energy underscores the potential for growth and the need for strategic initiatives to enhance sustainable electricity production.
Is Electricity Growing in Mongolia?
Electricity consumption in Mongolia has seen a slight increase, with the latest figures indicating a consumption of approximately 3036 kWh per person, which is an increase of 90 kWh from the previous year. This rise signals a trend towards more significant electricity use, possibly reflecting a growing economy or increased electrification. However, it's concerning to notice a reduction in low-carbon electricity generation, which stands at 232 kWh per person, down from the 2021 peak of 249 kWh per person. This backward step in clean energy growth is disheartening, especially in a time where environmental impacts and carbon emissions are becoming increasingly critical.
Suggestions
To expand low-carbon electricity generation, Mongolia could take lessons from countries excelling in nuclear and wind energy. Regions like Iowa and South Dakota successfully generate over half of their electricity from wind. This highlights the potential for wind energy expansion in Mongolia's expansive and open landscapes, similar to these regions. Additionally, countries like France, which generates nearly 70% of its electricity from nuclear, exemplify the potential for nuclear power as a sustainable energy source. Implementing both wind and nuclear energy infrastructures could significantly boost Mongolia's low-carbon electricity generation, moving the country towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.
History
Looking at the history of low-carbon electricity in Mongolia, the journey has been gradual. Starting from 2014, wind energy began contributing a small, but steadily increasing share to the electricity mix. The most notable progress was made in 2018 and 2019, when wind and solar energy advancements added to the grid, with wind seeing increases of around 0.2 TWh in both years, and solar making its first mark in 2019. However, the following years saw slower progress, with 2022 experiencing a setback as wind energy saw a minor decline. Encouragingly, 2024 has shown a slight rebound with a small increase in wind generation, pointing towards a renewed opportunity to strengthen Mongolia's commitment to low-carbon energy sources. This record reveals both challenges and opportunities, underscoring the vital importance of sustained investment in green technologies to ensure future energy security and environmental health.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.