The current state of electricity consumption in the Palestinian Territories is heavily reliant on imports, with more than 85% of electricity coming from abroad. Fossil energy accounts for roughly 9% of the total electricity consumption, reflecting the region's current reliance on non-clean sources that contribute to climate change and air pollution. In contrast, the proportion of low-carbon energy, which includes solar power, stands at a modest 4.4%. This suggests a significant opportunity for the Palestinian Territories to expand their low-carbon electricity generation, both to meet domestic needs and to enhance environmental sustainability.

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

Is Electricity Growing in Palestinian Territories?

Electricity consumption in the Palestinian Territories exhibited a slight decrease in 2022, with each person using about 1,455 kilowatt-hours (kWh), which is slightly less than the previous year's consumption of 1,464 kWh per person. This reduction, though marginal, is concerning as it indicates a stagnation at a time when the demand for electricity worldwide is predicted to increase due to growing needs for digital infrastructure and clean transportation. On a brighter note, the amount of low-carbon electricity consumed per person rose significantly from 42 kWh in 2021 to 64 kWh in 2022. This marked improvement highlights a positive shift towards cleaner energy sources, which will be essential in increasing the overall electricity supply sustainably.

Suggestions

To further enhance low-carbon electricity generation, the Palestinian Territories can take inspiration from regions that have successfully integrated solar and nuclear energy into their electricity grids. Countries like Lebanon and California, with solar power shares exceeding 30%, illustrate the potential for solar energy expansion. In parallel, nuclear power, as demonstrated in countries like France and Slovakia, providing more than 60% of their electricity from this clean source, presents another vital pathway. Combining investment in solar and nuclear energy would offer the Palestinian Territories a dual approach to significantly and sustainably boost their low-carbon electricity generation, thereby reducing dependence on fossil fuels and external imports.

History

Looking back at the history of low-carbon electricity in the Palestinian Territories, solar power has seen incremental yet promising growth in recent years. From 2015 to 2018, there was little to no progress in solar electricity generation. However, beginning in 2019 and continuing into 2020 and again in 2022, the region saw modest increases of 0.1 TWh in solar power each year, excluding 2021 when growth stagnated. This pattern indicates a slow but steady development that signifies an important start towards embracing solar energy. To ensure continued progress, it will be crucial to maintain this upward trajectory and avoid periods of stagnation to meet future electricity demands sustainably.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade