In 2022, Nepal's electricity consumption was primarily powered by low-carbon sources, with the vast majority coming from hydropower, which accounted for nearly all of the 10.7 TWh of clean energy generated. This means that more than half of the nation's electricity is derived from green energy sources. Compared to the global average of 3781 kWh per person, Nepal's electricity consumption stands at a modest 377 kWh per person, highlighting a significant gap. The relatively low levels of electricity generation and consumption in Nepal can limit socio-economic development opportunities, hinder modernization, and restrain improvements in public health and quality of life due to inadequate power for essential services and industrial growth.
Is Electricity Growing in Nepal?
Over recent years, Nepal has seen a gradual increase in electricity consumption. In 2022, consumption per person reached 377 kWh, a slight increase from 362 kWh in 2021. This uptick indicates a growing demand for electricity, which is paralleled by an increase in low-carbon electricity generation—namely hydropower. The per capita low-carbon generation jumped from 327 kWh in 2021 to 360 kWh in 2022, marking a notable growth and reflecting an encouraging trend towards a more sustainable electricity mix. Such growth is crucial and should be expedited to meet the expanding needs of the population while minimizing dependence on fossil fuels that contribute to climate change and air pollution.
Suggestions
Nepal can boost its low-carbon electricity generation by embracing insights from countries recognized for their clean energy achievements. Solar and wind energy have seen considerable success in countries like China and India, with solar generation reaching high levels. Nepal could similarly harness its ample sunlight to increase solar power output. Nuclear energy also offers a formidable avenue for increasing low-carbon generation, as evidenced by the success of countries like France and states such as Illinois in the United States. By investing in these technologies, Nepal can secure a cleaner, more sustainable energy future for its citizens while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Nepal, predominantly through hydropower, shows a consistent trend of expansion with occasional dips. Through the 1990s and early 2000s, hydro generation increased steadily with occasional small setbacks. An important surge came in 2016 and particularly in 2019 and 2021 with significant growth spurts of 0.7 TWh, 1.3 TWh, and 3.4 TWh respectively. This trend affirmatively underscores Nepal's potential for further hydropower development. Recent years show a continual upward trajectory, a hopeful sign for Nepal's energy sector as the country builds upon these foundations to diversify and expand clean electricity capacity.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.