In 2024, Sri Lanka's electricity consumption consists of more than half coming from low-carbon sources, with fossil fuels making up just under 45% of the total mix. A significant portion, almost 37%, is supplied by hydropower, one of the most mature technologies in the nation's clean energy portfolio. Solar energy contributes nearly 14%, demonstrating a strong and growing reliance on harnessing the power of the sun. Wind energy, though less prominent, still accounts for over 4% of the electricity generated. The substantial reliance on these low-carbon electricity sources is a positive trend that underscores Sri Lanka's commitment to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.

Is Electricity Growing in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka has seen a noticeable increase in electricity consumption over recent years. The 2024 figures show an average of 818 kWh per person, surpassing the previous record in 2021 by 48 kWh per person. This growth is accompanied by a commendable rise in low-carbon electricity generation, which now stands at 451 kWh per person, a significant increase of 71 kWh per person since the last record. The increased adoption of low-carbon energy sources has been a key driver of this growth, suggesting a robust movement towards expanding clean electricity generation in the nation.

Suggestions

To further increase low-carbon electricity generation, Sri Lanka can focus on expanding its existing solar infrastructure. Drawing lessons from successful regions, Sri Lanka could follow the example of Lebanon, where solar power contributes around 31%, and North Macedonia with 30%. Expansion in solar energy can be supplemented by exploring nuclear options, as seen in France and Slovakia, where nuclear provides more than 65% of their electricity. Although nuclear energy is not currently a part of Sri Lanka's energy portfolio, it offers a stable and large-scale solution for clean energy needs. The combination of these strategies will help Sri Lanka continue on its path towards sustainable energy independence.

History

Looking back at the history of low-carbon electricity in Sri Lanka, hydropower has seen a series of fluctuations. In the 1980s and 1990s, modest growth took place with increments around 0.9 TWh. The period from the mid-2000s to the early 2020s showcased variability in hydroelectric generation, with noteworthy increases in 2006 and 2013, countered by declines in other years. More recently, since 2022, there has been noteworthy growth in both solar and wind energy, with solar seeing an increase of 0.7 TWh in that year, and another 0.9 TWh by 2024. This pattern highlights the dynamic development and adjustment to low-carbon electricity sources, pointing to a positive yet challenging journey towards a more sustainable energy system for the country.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade