Electricity in Samoa in 2022

In 2022, Samoa's electricity consumption was significantly reliant on low-carbon sources, but still had room for improvement. More than half of the electricity was generated from clean energy sources, with solar and hydro being the primary contributors. Meanwhile, fossil fuels accounted for almost a third of the electricity production. The average electricity consumption per person in Samoa was notably lower than the global average of 432 watts per person, which can result in limited industrial growth and reduced quality of life for citizens due to restricted access to energy-dependent services.

Suggestions

To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Samoa should further develop its solar energy capacity, which has already proven effective in the region. Looking at successful examples globally, Samoa can draw inspiration from countries like India and Brazil, which have made significant strides in generating electricity from solar and wind respectively. Additionally, the expansion of wind energy, as seen in Germany and the United Kingdom, could also be beneficial. By adopting and scaling these strategies, Samoa could significantly reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and promote sustainable development.

History

Historically, Samoa's adoption of low-carbon electricity sources has been a gradual process. From 2001 to 2014, there was no recorded increase in hydroelectric generation, indicating a stagnant period in the development of clean energy. It wasn't until 2015 that solar energy began to emerge, although its growth was initially slow. This trend mirrored the consistent level of hydroelectric generation, which saw no significant additions over the years. Overall, the last two decades illustrate a cautious but promising shift towards integrating more sustainable electricity sources, aligning Samoa closer to global clean energy goals.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources