In 2023, electricity consumption in Papua New Guinea heavily relied on fossil fuels, with fossil sources generating more than three-quarters of the electricity. Low-carbon sources contributed close to a quarter of the total electricity mix. Within the clean energy sector, hydropower was the largest contributor, supplying a little over 20% of the nation's electricity. Geothermal energy, though contributing a small percentage, played a vital role in expanding the low-carbon footprint by adding just over 2% to the mix. Although the efforts to utilize clean energy are notable, the substantial reliance on fossil fuels highlights a pressing need for further development of low-carbon alternatives in Papua New Guinea.
Is Electricity Growing in Papua New Guinea?
Examining the growth of electricity consumption in Papua New Guinea reveals a concerning trend. As of 2023, the electricity consumption per person stood at 455 kWh, which marks a significant decline from the 2004 peak of 555 kWh per person. This 99 kWh drop signifies a stagnation in electricity growth over the years, contrasting with the rising demand for power in many parts of the world. Analyzing the data for low-carbon electricity, we also see a decline: from 194 kWh per person back in 1995 to 108 kWh today. The lack of growth in both general and low-carbon electricity generation is troubling, especially in the context of global electrification trends and the increasing need for sustainable energy solutions.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Papua New Guinea can look to successful regions that have effectively harnessed solar, wind, and nuclear energy. Countries like France and Slovakia generate a large portion of their electricity from nuclear energy, showing how nuclear power can significantly contribute to a clean electricity mix. Additionally, the large-scale adoption of solar energy in countries like Lebanon can serve as a model for utilizing abundant sunlight in Papua New Guinea. The success of solar and wind energy in various global regions underlines the importance of these clean technologies in the transition away from fossil fuels. By strategically investing in nuclear and solar power, Papua New Guinea can enhance its low-carbon electricity generation and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels, contributing positively to climate change mitigation and improving air quality.
History
Examining the history of low-carbon electricity generation in Papua New Guinea, hydropower has seen varying developments over the decades. Starting with incremental gains in the 1980s, there have been both increases and decreases in subsequent years. Notably, 1995 saw a significant expansion with a 0.4 TWh increase in hydropower. However, the late 1990s experienced fluctuations with both increases and decreases in generation. Geothermal energy began contributing in the early 2000s with modest growth, but this was offset by declines in later years. The 2010s showed sporadic increases and decreases in hydropower, leading up to recent times where small gains were noted in 2023. This historical context highlights a pattern of fluctuating development in low-carbon electricity that must stabilize and accelerate to support the nation’s sustainable energy goals. Increased efforts and consistent policies are essential for achieving a reliable and expanding clean electricity sector.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.