In 2024, Myanmar's electricity consumption is predominantly fossil-based, with gas accounting for more than half of the total generation at almost 51%, and coal contributing almost 10%. Together, fossil energy makes up more than 60% of the electricity supply. The remaining share is dominated by clean or low-carbon sources, with hydropower being the leading source, contributing around 38% to the electricity mix. Biofuels offer a marginal contribution of around 1%. This significant reliance on fossil fuels poses considerable challenges, especially in terms of environmental impact and sustainability.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Myanmar (Burma)?
The trajectory for electricity consumption in Myanmar raises concerns. In 2024, the per capita electricity consumption stands at 464 kWh, marking a decrease of 10 kWh from the previous year. This drop is not just limited to overall electricity usage but is also evident in the low-carbon sector, with the per capita contribution of clean electricity plummeting by 88 kWh from its peak in 2018. This downturn is troubling, as expanding clean electricity is crucial for reducing carbon emissions and transitioning towards a sustainable future. Without strategic interventions, Myanmar risks falling further behind in both electricity consumption and low-carbon deployment.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Myanmar should look to successful regions for inspiration, particularly in the deployment of solar and nuclear energy. Regions like Nevada and Chile, each with solar power contributing around 30% to their electricity mix, highlight the potential for Myanmar to harness its solar resources extensively. Additionally, countries like Slovakia and France have leveraged nuclear energy to generate about two-thirds of their electricity. By adopting similar strategies, Myanmar can reduce its dependence on fossil fuels while ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy supply. Embracing these technologies will be essential for meeting future energy demands and mitigating the adverse effects of climate change and air pollution.
History
Historically, Myanmar's progress in low-carbon electricity has been variable, with hydropower witnessing notable fluctuations. During the early 2000s and subsequent years, there were increments in hydropower generation, particularly significant increases in 2009 and 2017 with additions of 1.2 TWh and 2.8 TWh, respectively. However, the trend took a downturn post-2018, marked by a steep decline in 2019 of 3.6 TWh. Although there were minor recoveries in the following years, the recent trajectory accentuates the necessity for Myanmar to stabilize and expand its clean energy capacity, considering alternatives such as solar and nuclear to complement hydropower's variability and to ensure consistent growth in low-carbon electricity generation.
