In 2022, electricity consumption in the Palestinian Territories was heavily reliant on imports, with more than three-quarters of the electricity being sourced from external providers. Fossil energy accounted for nearly 9% of the total, indicating a substantial dependency on carbon-intensive sources. However, there has been a small but noteworthy reliance on low-carbon energy, with solar power contributing to all 4.4% of the low-carbon share. This portion of low-carbon electricity could be considered a starting point towards a clean and sustainable energy future, even though it remains a small fraction of the overall mix.

Is Electricity Growing in Palestinian Territories?

The latest data reveals a slight decrease in electricity consumption, with the figure dropping to 1,455 kWh per person in 2022 from the previous record of 1,464 kWh per person in 2021. This decline is concerning amidst the global push for increasing electricity consumption to support modern advancements such as electrification and AI. However, there is a silver lining in the form of increased low-carbon electricity generation. Solar energy generation increased significantly from 42 kWh per person in 2021 to 64 kWh per person in 2022, marking a positive trend toward cleaner electricity.

Suggestions

To further enhance low-carbon electricity generation, the Palestinian Territories could take cues from regions with successful solar and nuclear energy implementation. Notably, states like Nevada and Lebanon have made substantial strides in solar energy, with solar contributing over 30% to their electricity mix. Adopting similar strategies and investing in solar infrastructure could significantly bolster low-carbon electricity. Additionally, exploring nuclear energy, inspired by countries like France and Slovakia where nuclear energy dominates, would provide a reliable and clean electricity source to diversify energy dependence and reduce fossil fuel reliance.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity development in the Palestinian Territories illustrates a gradual uptake of solar energy. For several years, from 2015 to 2018, solar electricity generation stagnated at close to none. It wasn't until 2019 that solar energy saw its initial, albeit minor, increase with a growth of 0.1 TWh. This positive change was briefly consistent until 2021, then it resumed growth with another 0.1 TWh increase in 2022. While these steps are relatively small, they represent a budding enhancement of sustainable energy use that can be built upon with more ambitious strategies in the future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade