Currently, the electricity consumption in Myanmar is primarily dependent on fossil fuels, with approximately 61% of the electricity generated from fossil energy sources. The most significant contributor within this group is gas, accounting for more than half of the total electricity generation. In contrast, low-carbon electricity sources, which include hydropower and biofuels, represent about 39% of the electricity supply. Hydropower is the predominant low-carbon source, contributing nearly 38%, while biofuels make up a minimal portion. The reliance on gas and coal means that the country still heavily leans on fossil fuels, which poses challenges in terms of climate change and environmental impact. There’s a need for Myanmar to transition toward cleaner energy to ensure sustainable development.
Is Electricity Growing in Myanmar (Burma)?
Over recent years, there has been a decline in electricity consumption in Myanmar, as evidenced by the 2024 data showing a total of 464 kWh per person, a slight decrease from the 475 kWh per person recorded in 2023. This downward trend is mirrored in the low-carbon segment, where the latest figures show a decline to 182 kWh per person from the 2018 peak of 241 kWh per person. The reduction in both overall and low-carbon electricity consumption is concerning, as it indicates a stagnation in Myanmar’s energy growth. Increasing the share of low-carbon electricity is essential, not only to combat environmental issues but also to meet future energy demands that come with advancements in technology and economic development.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Myanmar can draw inspiration from various regions that successfully implemented solar and nuclear energy. Countries like France and Slovakia have significantly benefited from nuclear power, with more than half of their electricity generated by this clean energy source. Incorporating solar power, as seen in Lebanon where solar energy contributes to 31% of the electricity generation, might be particularly relevant for Myanmar given its geographical location. By learning from these regions, Myanmar can enhance its clean energy portfolio, thus reducing its dependency on fossil fuels and aligning with global trends toward sustainable energy solutions.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Myanmar has been largely associated with hydropower. From the late 1990s into the early 2000s, hydropower saw gradual increases, with significant growth throughout the 2000s and early 2010s. However, the late 2010s experienced some setbacks with notable declines in 2019 and 2020, before seeing minor rebounding efforts. Despite the fluctuating growth patterns, hydropower has remained a substantial part of Myanmar’s electricity generation. To ensure stable growth and sustainability, Myanmar should actively pursue the diversification of its clean energy sources by investing in both solar and nuclear technologies, which are pivotal for consistent energy security and environmental sustainability.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.