Electricity in Qatar in 2023

As of 2023, Qatar's electricity generation remains overwhelmingly dependent on fossil fuels, particularly gas, which accounts for almost all (99.72%) of the country's electricity production. This heavy reliance on fossil energy sources highlights a critical need for diversification, considering the negative impacts these sources have on climate change and air quality. In stark contrast, low-carbon or clean energy sources like solar, wind, and nuclear power contribute close to none of Qatar's electricity generation. This lopsided energy mix underscores the urgency for Qatar to shift towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly electricity production methods.

Suggestions

Qatar can look towards other nations for successful models in increasing low-carbon electricity generation. Countries such as France, Slovakia, and Ukraine have significantly invested in nuclear power, contributing 65%, 62%, and 55% of their electricity from nuclear sources, respectively. Wind energy offers another promising pathway, as demonstrated by Denmark and Uruguay, where wind accounts for 53% and 35% of the electricity generated. Despite Qatar's different geographic and climatic conditions, it shares similarities with the United Arab Emirates, where nuclear energy now contributes 13% to the electricity mix. By following these examples, Qatar could successfully diversify its energy portfolio to include substantial shares of nuclear and wind energy.

History

Historically, Qatar's attempts to integrate low-carbon energy sources into its electricity mix have been virtually stagnant. Starting from 2011, both biofuels and solar energy showed minimal to no growth in electricity generation. With biofuels contributing 0.1 TWh sporadically in 2013, solar energy consistently showed no output through the years up to 2021. This historical stagnation presents a clear call to action for Qatar to reassess and urgently revitalize its approach to adopting clean energy technologies such as nuclear and solar, to ensure a more sustainable and diversified electricity supply for the future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources