Electricity in Philippines in 2023

Based on the data for 2023, the Philippines primarily relies on fossil fuels for its electricity consumption. A total of 105.51 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity is produced, of which more than half, about 87.04 TWh, comes from general fossil-based sources. Coal alone accounts for almost two-thirds of this category, generating 69.47 TWh. The use of gas also contributes about 16.47 TWh towards the fossil energy total. In contrast, the low-carbon energy production stands only at 25.04 TWh, dominated by geothermal and hydroelectric power. Solar and wind energy contribute relatively insignificant amounts. When compared to the global average of 410 watts per person, the level of electricity generation in the Philippines is quite low. This could possibly lead to insufficient power supply, affecting industries and household consumption.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, the Philippines can learn from successful countries. Countries like China, the United States, and Brazil have made tremendous strides in harnessing wind energy, producing electricity in the range of 964 TWh, 425 TWh, and 94 TWh respectively. Similarly, nuclear energy has been effectively utilized in countries such as France, Russia and South Korea, each generating electricity in the hundreds of TWh from this resource. Lastly, the likes of China, the United States, and India have shown the immense potential in solar power, generating hundreds of TWh as well. It would serve the Philippines well to follow these examples, investing more in the construction of wind, nuclear, and solar infrastructures to boost its low-carbon electricity generation.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity generation in the Philippines has been fluctuating with notable developments since the 1980s. It was during the late 80s when notable progress was made, evident by the gradual increase of hydroelectric power that added 1.3 TWh in 1984 and another 1 TWh in 1988. However, the 1990s marked a period of inconsistency with hydroelectric power as its production saw decreases in 1997 and 1998, followed by an increase in 1999 before another dip in 2000. The new millennium brought a surge in geothermal energy until 2001 when it regressed. The later years also saw a mix of increases and decreases, with hydroelectric power leading the low-carbon energy sources. Unfortunately, the latest data from 2023 shows decreased production from both geothermal and biofuels. A continuous investment in and focus on other low-carbon electricity sources like wind, nuclear or solar would help to ensure a substainable future for energy production in the Philippines.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources