As of 2024, electricity consumption in Myanmar (Burma) shows a significant reliance on fossil fuel sources, with over 60% of electricity coming from fossil-based energy. Gas is the dominant fossil source, contributing to more than half of the electricity usage. However, Myanmar is also leveraging low-carbon energy sources, which comprises close to 40% of its electricity generation. Among these, hydropower is the primary contributor, making up nearly all of the low-carbon energy at almost 38%, with biofuels accounting for a small fraction of just above 1%. This indicates a notable, albeit not dominant, presence of clean energy within the country's electricity landscape, offering a foundation upon which to build greener solutions.

Is Electricity Growing in Myanmar (Burma)?

Despite efforts to diversify energy sources, electricity consumption per person in Myanmar has declined from the previous year. The current consumption stands at 464 kWh per person compared to the 475 kWh in 2023, indicating a minor decrease in electricity use. This decline is mirrored in the generation of low-carbon electricity, which also saw a reduction from the highest recorded 270 kWh per person in 2018 down to 182 kWh in 2024. This trend is concerning as it suggests a step back in the country's advancement toward greater green energy integration and overall electricity availability, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable growth and enhanced low-carbon electricity generation.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity production, Myanmar could look at countries with successful integration of green technologies. Solar and wind, as observed in states like Nevada with solar at 35% and Iowa with wind at 57%, provide excellent examples of how to amplify clean electricity. Considering Myanmar's geographical position and climate, investing in solar energy alongside hydropower might be particularly beneficial. Furthermore, Myanmar could explore nuclear power as a reliable and sustainable option, learning from countries such as France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy contributes over 60% of their electricity. These countries exemplify how a robust nuclear infrastructure can offer a steady supply of low-carbon energy, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and allowing for greater electricity growth.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in Myanmar has been largely driven by changes in hydropower capacity. The late 2010s witnessed several substantial hikes in hydroelectric output, especially in 2017, when there was a dramatic increase of 2.8 TWh. This marks a period of growth until challenges arose, evidenced by a decline in 2019 and 2020, with reductions of 3.6 and 1.7 TWh, respectively. While there was some recovery post-2020, with minor increases, the overall trend hints at volatility and underlines the necessity for a more stable and diversified low-carbon strategy. Increasing investments in scalable and efficient green technologies could stabilize and enhance low-carbon electricity supply, setting the stage for robust future growth.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade