Electricity in Saudi Arabia in 2023
As of 2023, electricity consumption in Saudi Arabia is characterized predominantly by fossil fuel sources, with fossil-based electricity making up nearly 99% of the total. Natural gas alone contributes to almost 63% of the electricity mix, reflecting a heavy reliance on these traditional energy sources. In stark contrast, low-carbon or clean electricity fuels a tiny fraction, with just over 1% of the total, predominantly sourced from solar energy at about 1%. The current state suggests a significant opportunity for growth in sustainable energy sectors to increase the supply of clean electricity, reducing the environmental footprint and oil dependence.
Is Electricity Growing in Saudi Arabia?
Electricity consumption in Saudi Arabia has experienced a slight decline in recent years. In 2023, the per person electricity usage stood at 12,712 kWh, down from the record high of 12,832 kWh per person in 2017, marking a decrease of 119 kWh per person. However, there is positive news on the clean electricity front: low-carbon electricity generation per person has increased significantly from 71 kWh in 2022 to 173 kWh in 2023, showing an increase of 103 kWh per person. This rise in low-carbon electricity indicates progress towards diversifying energy sources and improving sustainability, but an overall increase in total electricity consumption, especially from clean sources, remains essential.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Saudi Arabia could draw lessons from various successful regions. Countries like France, where nuclear energy constitutes 69% of electricity, exemplify how significant nuclear contributions can be. Inspired by states and regions with high solar contributions, Saudi Arabia can encourage the expansion of its solar capabilities. Specifically, looking at Lebanon, where solar power accounts for more than 30% of electricity, demonstrates the potential for solar growth. Through a strategic increase in both nuclear and solar energy capacities, Saudi Arabia can significantly boost its low-carbon electricity production.
History
In the past decades, Saudi Arabia's journey towards low-carbon electricity generation has been gradual. Until 2017, solar energy production was effectively nonexistent, while wind power only saw minor milestones. The period from 2018 onwards marks the beginning of solar electricity, albeit at modest levels. Noteworthy developments occurred in 2021 and beyond, with solar energy experiencing significant growth, culminating in a remarkable increase of 3.5 TWh in 2023. Similarly, wind energy saw a substantial increase in 2022, adding 1.4 TWh. This upward trend in recent years is promising, and it further highlights the need for concerted efforts in the coming years to accelerate the development of clean electricity sources.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.