In the Palestinian Territories, electricity consumption relies heavily on net imports, accounting for more than 85% of the total supply in 2022. This means that local energy production is minimal, with fossil energy making up nearly 9% of the consumption. Low-carbon sources form a small yet significant portion of the energy mix, standing at about 4.4%. Among these, solar energy is the primary source, also contributing 4.4% of the overall electricity consumption. Despite this, the reliance on fossil fuels suggests a potential increase in greenhouse gas emissions, emphasizing the need for a shift towards more sustainable energy options.

Data sources used on this page include Ember. More about data sources →

Is Electricity Growing in Palestinian Territories?

When considering whether electricity consumption is growing in the Palestinian Territories, recent data shows a slight decline. The total electricity consumption per person fell from a record 1464 kWh in 2021 to 1455 kWh in 2022, indicating a decrease of 9 kWh per person. However, there is a positive development in low-carbon electricity generation, which increased from 42 kWh per person in 2021 to 64 kWh per person in 2022, marking an increase of 22 kWh per person. This growth in clean energy suggests a promising shift, yet it highlights the need for further commitment to expanding low-carbon infrastructure to support both environmental goals and energy independence.

Suggestions

To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, the Palestinian Territories could look to successful regions for inspiration. Countries like North Macedonia and Lebanon have demonstrated significant achievements in solar energy, generating nearly half and a third of their electricity from solar sources, respectively. Meanwhile, states such as Iowa and Kansas have excelled in wind energy, providing over 40% of their electricity from this clean source. France and Slovakia illustrate the potential for nuclear energy, which powers more than two-thirds of their electricity needs. Adopting these successful strategies and technologies in solar and nuclear energy could significantly boost the Palestinian Territories' capacity for clean and sustainable electricity.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in the Palestinian Territories, specifically solar energy, reflects an evolving landscape. From 2015 to 2018, there was no recorded growth in solar electricity generation. However, starting in 2019, there was a modest increase of 0.1 TWh, which remained consistent into 2020. Though 2021 did not see further growth, 2022 recorded another 0.1 TWh increase in solar energy generation. This steady but slow incorporation of solar power signifies the beginning of a more promising era for low-carbon electricity, revealing the potential for future expansion and the importance of sustained investment in this sector.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade