In Sri Lanka, the electricity consumption profile for 2024 shows a promising trend towards cleaner energy sources, yet still presents room for improvement. As of this year, more than half of the electricity consumed, around 55%, is generated from low-carbon sources, while the remaining 45% comes from fossil fuels. Among the clean energy pathways, hydropower stands out, contributing almost 37% of the total electricity. Solar power also plays a significant role, providing nearly 14% of electricity. Wind accounts for just over 4%. While the majority of the electricity is derived from clean sources, the reliance on fossil fuels indicates that there is more progress to be made in reducing carbon emissions and preventing the environmental impacts associated with fossil fuel use.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember, Energy Institute and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Sri Lanka?
The upward trend in electricity consumption in Sri Lanka is undeniable, with the latest data indicating an increase to 818 kWh per person from a previous peak of 771 kWh per person in 2021. This growth reflects a jump of 48 kWh per person, showcasing a demand for increased electricity production. In terms of low-carbon electricity, the generation has also seen impressive growth, reaching 451 kWh per person, up from a previous high of 381 kWh per person. This increase of 71 kWh per person in low-carbon electricity indicates a positive shift towards more sustainable energy practices. Yet, the goal of further reducing fossil fuel dependency remains crucial in the quest for a more stable and environmentally friendly electricity supply.
Suggestions
To enhance the share of low-carbon electricity, Sri Lanka should focus on expanding solar energy capacity, as it already plays a vital role in their energy mix. By looking at successful regions, Sri Lanka can draw valuable lessons to diversify and strengthen its low-carbon portfolio. Countries and states like Nevada and California have shown that a significant proportion of electricity can be derived from solar energy, with figures like 34% and 31%, respectively. Additionally, nuclear power has demonstrated success in various regions, with countries such as France and Slovakia producing over 60% of their electricity from nuclear power. By investing in solar and considering nuclear options, Sri Lanka can further increase its low-carbon electricity generation while meeting growing energy demands.
History
Historically, Sri Lanka's journey in low-carbon electricity generation, particularly hydropower, has seen its fair share of fluctuations. In the mid-1980s and early 1990s, hydropower capacity saw minimal gains, but a pattern of increases and decreases characterized the following decades. Notable growth was evident in 2010 and 2013, with rises of 1.8 and 3.6 TWh, respectively. However, these gains have often been offset by declines, such as a notable decrease of 2.4 TWh in 2014. Recent years have been more stable, with incremental gains in hydropower, including 1.1 TWh in 2024, complemented by the burgeoning sectors of wind and solar, which started contributing significantly from 2022. This historical backdrop emphasizes the need for continued investment in diverse low-carbon technologies to establish a more resilient and sustainable electricity framework.
