Electricity in Sri Lanka in 2023

In 2023, Sri Lanka's electricity consumption demonstrates a nearly even balance between low-carbon and fossil energy sources. Low-carbon electricity generation, which includes hydropower, solar, and wind, collectively contributes a little more than half to the country's overall electricity, amounting to around 50%. Within the low-carbon category, hydropower represents the largest share with about 35%, followed by solar energy contributing slightly more than 10%, and wind energy making up just under 5%. The remaining 50% of Sri Lanka's electricity comes from fossil fuels, which continue to exert a substantial presence, highlighting the urgent need to transition to cleaner sources to mitigate the environmental harm and climate change impacts associated with fossil fuel consumption.

Suggestions

To bolster low-carbon electricity generation in Sri Lanka, there is considerable opportunity to expand on solar energy, given its already substantial contribution and the country's conducive climate conditions. By following the examples of countries like Greece and Chile, which have achieved solar electricity generation levels of 22% and 21% respectively, Sri Lanka can work towards similar advancements. Furthermore, examining the success seen in Uruguay, where wind energy accounts for 36% of electricity generation, could provide critical insights for bolstering Sri Lanka's wind energy capabilities. Implementing effective policies, technology transfer, and investments modeled after these countries could facilitate Sri Lanka's growth in clean energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels substantially.

History

Looking back at Sri Lanka's history with low-carbon electricity, hydropower has shown a pattern of fluctuations over the years, with both increases and decreases shaping its overall trajectory. From the mid-1980s until 2022, hydropower witnessed several growth spurts, notably adding 3.6 TWh in 2013, though it also experienced declines, including a significant decrease of 2.1 TWh in 2022. The year 2023 marks a promising turn with a 1 TWh increase in solar generation alongside a modest 0.7 TWh rise in hydropower contributions. This recent boost in solar energy reflects a positive shift and suggests a growing recognition of solar potential, forming part of a broader strategy to integrate a diversified clean energy portfolio in Sri Lanka. This trajectory underscores the importance of consistent investments and strategic planning in sustaining and advancing low-carbon energy development.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources