As of 2024, the state of electricity consumption in Myanmar is notably characterized by a significant reliance on fossil fuels, making up about 61% of the electricity production. Gas is the primary fossil fuel source, accounting for approximately half of the electricity generation. On the bright side, low-carbon energy sources contribute nearly 40% to the electricity mix. Hydropower is the dominant force within the low-carbon sector, providing almost all of the clean energy at nearly 38%, while biofuels make up a minimal 1% share. This distribution indicates a clear dependency on fossil fuels, yet it also presents an important foundation to potentially expand upon the low-carbon energy share.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Myanmar (Burma)?
Sadly, there's a decline in overall electricity consumption per person in Myanmar, which shrank from 475 kWh/person in 2023 to 464 kWh/person in 2024, marking a decrease of 10 kWh/person. This drop is mirrored in low-carbon electricity as well, which is now at 182 kWh/person, down significantly by 88 kWh/person compared to the peak in 2018 at 270 kWh/person. Such trends are concerning, as they reveal not only a broader decrease in electricity use but also a retreat in clean energy performance. Reversing this dip is crucial for supporting future growth and environmental sustainability.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Myanmar can look to regions that have successfully bolstered their sustainable energy sectors. Countries like Lebanon and Nevada have managed to make substantial strides in solar energy, with solar making up 31% and 30% of electricity generation respectively. Myanmar could emulate their progress by prioritizing the expansion of solar infrastructure. Additionally, the impressive use of nuclear power in countries such as France and Slovakia, contributing 69% and 67% respectively, underscores the potential benefits of developing a nuclear energy sector. By strategically investing in both solar and nuclear energy, Myanmar could considerably diversify and strengthen its low-carbon electricity generation.
History
Historically, Myanmar's electricity sector has experienced fluctuations, particularly in hydropower, which serves as the backbone of its clean energy portfolio. In the 1990s, there were moderate progressions in hydropower, notably with a 0.3 TWh increase in 1992, offset by a similar decrease in 1998. The early 2000s saw incremental growth, marked by consistent annual improvements, peaking in 2009 with a substantial 1.2 TWh gain. The largest leap occurred in 2011 and 2017, with increases of 2.4 and 2.8 TWh boosting hydropower’s capacity. Unfortunately, recent years have seen setbacks, with notable declines in 2019 and 2021. Building resilience and steady growth in low-carbon sectors is vital for ensuring a stable energy future.
