Mozambique has made significant strides in adopting clean electricity, with more than 80% of its electricity coming from low-carbon sources. Notably, hydropower dominates this category, contributing about 83% of the total electricity production. On the other hand, fossil energy, predominantly gas, accounts for roughly 16% of the electricity mix. The country's achievement in maintaining such a substantial share of clean electricity is commendable. Additionally, Mozambique serves as a net exporter of electricity, effectively aiding its neighboring countries in reducing their carbon emissions. However, the challenge ahead lies in further electrifying sectors such as transport, heating, and industry, which will necessitate a greater supply of electricity.
Is Electricity Growing in Mozambique?
Current trends show a worrying decrease in electricity consumption per person in Mozambique. As of 2023, the average consumption stands at 582 kWh per capita, down significantly from the historic record of 1248 kWh per person set in 1980. Low-carbon electricity has also seen a concerning decline, with the latest generation at 487 kWh per person—far below the 1147 kWh achieved in 1980. These reductions indicate an urgent need for Mozambique to revitalize its electricity consumption and production, particularly from clean sources, to not only match previous levels but to surpass them to meet future demands.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation further, Mozambique could focus on diversifying its energy mix by exploring solar and nuclear energy. Solar power, with its abundant potential in the region due to high sun exposure, can significantly aid in increasing sustainable electricity output. Simultaneously, investing in nuclear energy will provide a stable and reliable electricity source, helping to balance the variability that can come with hydropower and solar. Such strategic investments can ensure Mozambique not only meets its domestic electricity demands but continues to play a vital role in exporting clean energy across borders.
History
Examining the history of low-carbon electricity in Mozambique, hydropower has experienced a series of fluctuations over the decades. In the early 1980s, notably 1981 and 1984, there were notable declines, with dips of nearly 10 TWh and 4.4 TWh, respectively. Moving forward, the late 1990s marked a positive shift, with significant increases noted in 1998 and these gains continued through to the early 2000s. More recently, the years around 2012 and 2016 witnessed some setbacks with reductions in hydropower generation. However, by 2019, there was a resurgence in production. To ensure future growth, expanding beyond hydropower through solar and nuclear opportunities will be crucial.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.