In 2023, Samoa's electricity consumption primarily relies on fossil fuels, which account for 60% of its total electricity generation. Nonetheless, the country is making strides with low-carbon energy sources, which comprise 40% of its electricity mix. Hydropower leads among clean energy sources in Samoa, contributing 20% to the overall electricity generation. Solar energy is also making a notable impact, accounting for more than 13% of the electricity produced, while biofuels contribute close to 7%. Efforts to increase the share of clean energy are essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and minimizing the environmental impact associated with fossil fuel use.
Is Electricity Growing in Samoa?
Unfortunately, Samoa's overall electricity consumption has seen a decline, with the latest data showing a per capita consumption of 692 kWh, down from a previous high of 849 kWh in 2020. This represents a reduction of about 157 kWh per person, indicating a concerning drop in electricity usage. Notably, this decrease affects both fossil and low-carbon electricity, with the latter dropping to 277 kWh per person in 2023 from a high of 374 kWh per person in 2021, highlighting a 97 kWh reduction. This decline underscores a pressing need for policies and initiatives that promote the growth of both total electricity and low-carbon sources.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Samoa should focus on expanding its solar power capabilities further, building on its existing solar infrastructure. Lessons can be drawn from regions like Lebanon, where solar energy contributes around 31% of their electricity. Although Samoa doesn't currently generate nuclear energy, the successful integration of nuclear power in countries like France, where it provides approximately 69% of the electricity, demonstrates the immense potential nuclear energy holds. Learning from regions that have effectively harnessed solar and nuclear energy can guide Samoa in crafting strategies for a more sustainable electricity future.
History
Historically, Samoa's low-carbon electricity landscape has consisted of a stable hydropower contribution, with no significant year-on-year changes from 2001 to 2023. Solar energy first appeared in 2015, but it too has not had significant annual changes in generation. Biofuels were introduced more recently in 2021, though without notable yearly variance since then. This lack of dynamic growth in the low-carbon sector over the years highlights a missed opportunity for Samoa to enhance its clean energy generation further. By proactively pursuing advancements in solar and potentially exploring nuclear options, Samoa can transform its low-carbon electricity sector into a robust pillar of its energy strategy.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.