Electricity in New Caledonia in 2022

In 2022, New Caledonia's electricity consumption was heavily reliant on fossil fuels, making up more than 80% of the total energy mix. Coal was the largest contributor within this category, accounting for about half of the total electricity use. On the other hand, low-carbon or clean energy sources played a smaller role, constituting just under 20% of the electricity consumption. Among these green energy sources, hydropower was the most significant, contributing about 8%. Solar energy followed closely with nearly 7%, while wind power accounted for a little over 2%. This distribution highlights a significant dependency on fossil-based sources, emphasizing the need for a transition to cleaner options to mitigate environmental impacts like climate change and air pollution.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, New Caledonia can learn from the successful strategies implemented by other countries. For instance, Denmark has achieved remarkable success with wind power, generating 59% of its electricity from this clean source. Countries with significant solar generation such as Greece and Chile, which produce 22% and 21% of their electricity from solar energy, respectively, display the potential of maximizing solar resources. Although New Caledonia may not have nuclear energy at present, it can consider the approach taken by France, where nuclear power generates 67% of its electricity, demonstrating the feasibility of a secure and reliable low-carbon energy supply. By investing in wind and solar energy technologies and exploring the potential for nuclear power, New Caledonia can significantly enhance its low-carbon electricity generation and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in New Caledonia has primarily been dominated by hydropower developments over the years. In the early 2000s, there were minor fluctuations in hydroelectric generation with slight decreases in 2001 and 2006 and occasional increases, such as in 2007 and 2008. The period from 2010 to 2019 saw similar patterns with small changes annually, though 2014 experienced a notable decline. The introduction of solar power in 2019 marked a pivotal moment, adding another dimension to New Caledonia's low-carbon energy portfolio. Despite these incremental developments, the overall contribution of clean energy remains modest, calling for more robust policies and investments to bolster growth in this sector. By accelerating the adoption of wind, solar, and the exploration of nuclear power, New Caledonia can build a comprehensive, sustainable electricity network that aligns with global low-carbon trends.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources