Electricity in Syria in 2022

As of 2022, Syria's electricity consumption heavily relies on fossil fuels, with almost all (about 96%) of its electricity being derived from these sources. Natural gas plays a significant role within this category, accounting for roughly 38% of Syria's electricity generation. On the other hand, low-carbon energy sources contribute only around 4% to the country's electricity mix, with hydropower making up approximately 3.7% of the total electricity generation. This heavy dependence on fossil fuels has negative environmental impacts such as climate change and air pollution, highlighting the urgent need for Syria to diversify its electricity generation towards more sustainable, low-carbon alternatives.

Suggestions

To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Syria could focus on expanding its use of clean energy sources such as solar and wind, while exploring the potential of nuclear energy, given its vast efficiency as observed in other nations. From countries like Lebanon, which generates about 31% of its electricity from solar power, Syria can learn that leveraging abundant sunlight can significantly bolster clean energy generation. Moreover, given the geopolitical challenges both Syria and Lebanon face, advancements in solar technology could be highly compatible with the regional climate and resources. Similarly, looking at countries like Morocco, where wind accounts for 21% of electricity, establishing wind farms could be beneficial. Furthermore, considering the global success of nuclear energy in countries like Ukraine and Armenia, which generate more than 50% and 30% of their electricity from nuclear respectively, Syria might consider investing in nuclear technology as a steadfast pillar for its low-carbon future.

History

Historically, Syria's venture into low-carbon electricity generation has been primarily through hydropower, with fluctuating levels of production. In the early 1980s, hydroelectricity began modestly, with incremental increases in 1981 and 1984. However, Syria experienced a decline in 1986. Early 2000s efforts slightly rebounded with some years like 2004 seeing noticeable growth in hydroelectricity generation. Unfortunately, this trend was not consistent, as evidenced by significant downturns in 2002, 2007, and a particularly steep decline in 2015. These fluctuations illuminate the importance of stable and diversified clean energy sources. As global reliance on low-carbon energy grows, embracing technologies like nuclear, solar, and wind can establish more reliability and sustainability for Syria's electricity framework.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources