Electricity in New Caledonia in 2022

In 2022, New Caledonia's electricity consumption was heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with more than 80% of its electricity generated from this source, and coal alone accounting for over 40%. Low-carbon or clean energy sources made up nearly 17% of the electricity generation, with hydropower contributing about 8%, solar approximately 7%, and wind energy accounting for a little over 2%. This energy mix highlights a significant dependence on fossil fuels, but also indicates potential opportunities for expanding clean energy to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability.

Suggestions

To boost low-carbon electricity generation, New Caledonia could look to countries that have successfully integrated clean energy sources into their electricity mix. For instance, Denmark and Uruguay have demonstrated significant success in harnessing wind power, generating nearly 60% and 33% of their electricity from wind, respectively. New Caledonia could leverage its coastal and wind-favorable geography to develop wind farms. Similarly, countries like Greece and Chile have made considerable progress with solar energy, achieving over 20% of their electricity generation from this source, and these examples can guide New Caledonia in maximizing solar potential. Investing in a balanced mix of solar and wind power, coupled with potential advancements in energy storage, would empower New Caledonia to transition towards a more sustainable and self-reliant electricity grid.

History

Looking back at the history of low-carbon electricity in New Caledonia, hydropower has been the most consistent contributor. Throughout the early 2000s, hydropower experienced several fluctuations, with minor increases and decreases over the years. Significant changes include a decrease in 2001 and 2014, while the years 2007, 2008, 2013, 2015, and 2017 saw incremental increases. Solar energy made its presence felt in 2019, contributing to the low-carbon mix and providing a foundation for future growth in this sector. Despite the potential setbacks, these historical trends illustrate the resilience and capability of New Caledonia to adapt and expand its clean energy footprint over time. By learning from past experiences and investing in new technologies, New Caledonia is well-positioned to transform its electricity sector for a greener future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources