Electricity in Solomon Islands in 2023
The electricity consumption in the Solomon Islands is currently on the lower end of the global spectrum, with an annual usage of 138 kWh per person, which is just a small fraction of the global average of 3781 kWh per person. This indicates that electricity availability in the Solomon Islands is notably limited, with a significant reliance on fossil fuels and close to none coming from clean energy sources. The low levels of electricity generation could restrict various developmental aspects in the Solomon Islands, such as industrial growth, economic expansion, and improvements in the quality of life. Additionally, the dependency on fossil energies can contribute to local air pollution and impact the environment negatively over time.
Is Electricity Growing in Solomon Islands?
Speed of electricity growth in the Solomon Islands appears to be stagnant, and it has even seen a decline from its historic peak. In 2007, the consumption was at 160 kWh per person, and it has diminished by 22 kWh, equating to the current level of 138 kWh per person in 2023. The low-carbon electricity generation also remains unchanged since 2022, recorded at 13 kWh per person. The lack of growth in clean energy generation is worrying; it especially highlights the pressing need for strategies to increase clean, sustainable, and efficient energy sources to match future demands and contribute to global low-carbon goals.
Suggestions
To elevate low-carbon electricity generation, the Solomon Islands could potentially look towards countries that have successfully expanded their green energy output. For instance, China and Texas have made tremendous strides in solar and wind energy, generating 1025 TWh and 126 TWh from solar and wind, respectively. Similarly, the United States and France have substantial nuclear outputs, which contribute significantly to their energy mixes. The Solomon Islands could benefit from adopting solar and nuclear energy, learning from technologies used in these regions, and tailoring them to suit local conditions and needs, thereby ensuring a clean and sustainable electricity future.
History
Historically, the Solomon Islands have not experienced any significant changes in their low-carbon electricity generation, as recorded in 2022 and 2023, where both years saw no increase in solar energy output. The absence of dynamic shifts indicates a stagnation that has persisted over the recent years, signifying a missed opportunity for expanding the low-carbon electricity infrastructure. The Solomon Islands need to revitalize and inject enthusiasm into their clean energy sector, fostering a robust environment for development and adoption of technologies that enhance low-carbon electricity, with a particular focus on solar and nuclear energy to maximize sustainability.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.