In 2022, the state of electricity consumption in New Caledonia was heavily reliant on fossil energy, constituting almost three-quarters of the total electricity used. More than half of this came specifically from coal, indicating a significant dependence on fossil fuels. In contrast, low-carbon energy sources made up a little over a quarter of the electricity generation, with hydropower being the most significant contributor among them, followed by solar power and a small contribution from wind. This division between high fossil fuel reliance and a smaller share of clean energy sources highlights a critical area for growth in sustainable energy practices in New Caledonia.
Is Electricity Growing in New Caledonia?
Looking at the trend of electricity growth in New Caledonia, it is evident that the overall electricity consumption has decreased over the recent years. In 2022, the total electricity use was 10,763 kWh per person, marking a reduction when compared to the previous peak of 12,345 kWh per person in 2018, showing a decline of more than 1,500 kWh per person. However, there is a silver lining in the increase of low-carbon electricity, which reached 2,821 kWh per person in 2022, up from the previous record set just a year earlier with an increase of over 500 kWh. This positive trend in low-carbon energy generation indicates growing awareness and adaptation of clean technologies even in the face of overall electricity consumption decline.
Suggestions
New Caledonia can draw valuable lessons from regions that have successfully increased their share of low-carbon electricity. Solar power has great potential for expansion; by looking at countries like Lebanon and Nevada where solar contributes significantly to the electricity mix, New Caledonia can seek similar growth in this sector. Furthermore, nuclear energy, as demonstrated by France's vast 68% contribution, presents a significant opportunity for sustainable expansion. Incorporating both solar and nuclear energy into New Caledonia's electricity strategy can not only reduce reliance on fossil fuels but also set a more robust and sustainable energy future. Learning from these regions can provide a pathway to diversify and increase low-carbon electricity generation efficiently.
History
The historical development of low-carbon electricity in New Caledonia shows gradual growth, particularly in hydropower. In the early 2000s, there were relatively minor fluctuations, with slight increases and decreases in hydropower generation noted over the years. The late 2010s saw modest but consistently positive changes, with solar energy beginning to make its mark in 2019. The commitment to grow clean electricity sources continued into the early 2020s, as 2021 and 2022 witnessed positive increments in both hydro and solar production. This steady growth, while indicative of progress, highlights the need for more aggressive and strategic efforts towards expanding low-carbon energy generation, particularly emphasizing the potential of solar and nuclear energy as central pillars for a sustainable energy future in New Caledonia.