Electricity in Sri Lanka in 2022

In 2022, Sri Lanka produced a moderate amount of electricity relative to the global average, with nearly identical output from both fossil fuels and low-carbon sources. The country generated approximately 16.7 TWh of low-carbon power, split between hydropower and solar energy. A closer look reveals that just over 85% of low-carbon electricity is from hydropower, while solar contributes less than 15%. Fossil fuels contribute 8.2 TWh, giving Sri Lanka a total electricity output of around 24.9 TWh. This amounts to roughly 1200 Watts per person, which is considerably higher than the global average of 410 watts. This discrepancy shows potential for negative impacts such as an increased reliance on fossil fuels, leading to more pollution and adverse effects on climate change.

Suggestions

Drawing from the experiences of other nations, Sri Lanka can scale its low-carbon electricity by maximizing its wind, solar, and nuclear power potentials. Countries with similar tropical conditions like Brazil and India have made strides in solar and wind energy, generating 49 TWh and 94 TWh, respectively. Taking cue from their strategies can help Sri Lanka exploit its renewable potential and diversify its energy mix away from fossil fuels. Moreover, considering the success of small but thriving countries like South Korea, which generates 172 TWh from nuclear energy, Sri Lanka could also explore the nuclear option further as a feasible path towards more significant low-carbon output.

History

Looking as far back as the 1980s, Sri Lanka has had a history of fluctuating hydroelectric production levels. In the early years of the 1990s, hydro production saw a moderate increase, while the mid-90s were characterized by a decline as shown in the dip between 1996 and 2000. The most significant increase in hydropower production, however, was seen in 2013 with an improvement of 3.6 TWh compared to the previous year. Despite the fluctuations, the importance of hydropower as a source of low-carbon electricity has remained a constant in Sri Lanka’s energy mix. In the 21st century, solar power has emerged as a new player, having increased by 0.5 TWh in 2022, and has the potential for further development in the future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources