Electricity in Saudi Arabia in 2023

In 2023, the electricity consumption in Saudi Arabia is heavily dependent on fossil fuels, accounting for nearly 99% of the total electricity generation. Natural gas alone contributes to more than 60% of this fossil-fuel-based electricity. In contrast, low-carbon or clean energy sources form a very small fraction of the energy mix, with solar energy representing just about 1%, leaving close to none from other low-carbon sources. This indicates a significant reliance on fossil fuels, which can lead to concerns about sustainability, air pollution, and climate change impacts.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Saudi Arabia can draw lessons from successful countries that have considerably integrated such sources into their energy mix. Regional parallels can be seen in the United Arab Emirates, which has achieved 20% of its electricity from nuclear energy. Similarly, Saudi Arabia can look towards European nations like France and Slovakia, where nuclear power contributes to more than half of their electricity generation. Denmark's wind energy success, which accounts for nearly 60% of its electricity, also serves as a commendable model. Saudi Arabia could focus on expanding both solar and nuclear power plants, leveraging its abundant sunlight and stable governance to invest in a robust infrastructure for these sustainable energy solutions.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in Saudi Arabia has been notably limited, with almost no activity in solar energy up until 2018. The solar generation only began picking up traction with a modest 0.1 TWh increase in both 2018 and 2019. Most of the notable expansion occurred more recently, with solar energy surging by 3.5 TWh in 2023. Wind energy also saw some development, recording a significant increase of 1.4 TWh in 2022. This marks a positive trajectory towards low-carbon electricity, though its late start highlights the urgency for more aggressive investment and policy initiatives to transition towards cleaner energy sources.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources