In the Palestinian Territories, the majority of electricity, more than 85%, is imported, as reflected in the 2022 data. Fossil fuels account for approximately 9% of the electricity consumed, pointing to a significant reliance on non-sustainable sources. Low-carbon energy contributes around 4% of the electricity generation, with solar energy being the sole contributor under this category. This limited share of clean energy highlights a pressing need for increased initiatives toward sustainable sources like nuclear and other solar projects. A shift away from fossil fuels is essential, considering their adverse effects on climate change and air pollution.

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

Is Electricity Growing in Palestinian Territories?

When evaluating whether electricity consumption is growing in the Palestinian Territories, there is cause for concern. The latest total electricity consumption in 2022 is slightly lower than the previous year. With a decrease from a historic 1464 kWh per person in 2021 to 1455 kWh per person in 2022, this unwelcome shift suggests stagnation. Conversely, low-carbon electricity generation has increased from 42 kWh per person in 2021 to 64 kWh per person in 2022, a positive indication of growing clean electricity production. This progress needs to be sustained and accelerated to contribute effectively to meeting future energy demands.

Suggestions

To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, the Palestinian Territories can look to other regions for inspiration and strategies. Embracing nuclear energy, as successfully implemented by countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear constitutes more than half of the electricity mix, would be beneficial. On the solar front, countries with substantial solar energy contributions, such as Lebanon at 31% and Nevada at 33%, demonstrate that with strategic investments, regions can significantly increase their solar capacities. Fostering partnerships, adapting policies, and investing in technology are critical steps toward achieving a more sustainable electricity landscape.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity development in the Palestinian Territories has seen incremental growth, particularly in solar energy. From 2015 to 2018, solar energy generated close to none, and 2019 marked the beginning of a gradual increase, registering 0.1 TWh in electricity generation. A slight increase was visible in 2020, also at 0.1 TWh, followed by a stagnation in 2021, when no growth was recorded. The subsequent year, 2022, again saw an increase of 0.1 TWh. While these incremental steps offer a foundation to build upon, a more ambitious and accelerated strategy is required to significantly enhance clean electricity output in the coming years.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade