Electricity in Syria in 2022
The current state of electricity consumption in Syria reveals a heavy reliance on fossil energy, which comprises over 95% of the energy mix. More than a third of this electricity comes specifically from gas. Meanwhile, low-carbon energy sources make up a small fraction of the electricity mix, contributing less than 5%. Within this modest share, hydropower is the main player, accounting for almost 4% of Syria's electricity. This reliance on fossil fuels is a concern, given the global push towards reducing carbon emissions and the potential environmental impacts such as climate change and air pollution.
Is Electricity Growing in Syria?
Analyzing the growth trajectory of Syria's electricity consumption, the signs are not encouraging. The latest electricity usage stands at 894 kWh per person, a significant decline from the previous peak of 2066 kWh per person in 2010. This sharp decrease highlights a reduction of more than half in electricity usage over a decade. Low-carbon electricity generation has also witnessed a decline, with the recent figure at 39 kWh per person compared to a high of 322 kWh per person recorded in 1984. The decrease in both total and low-carbon electricity generation indicates a stagnating growth in sustainable energy, which needs urgent attention to meet future demands.
Suggestions
To drive an increase in low-carbon electricity generation, Syria can take cues from successful regions that have effectively utilized various clean energy technologies. Countries like France, which derives 68% of its electricity from nuclear power, and regions like Denmark, utilizing wind to generate 52% of its electricity, showcase promising paths. Lebanon has made strides with solar, producing 31% of its electricity from this resource, indicating a shared regional opportunity for Syria. Syria can significantly benefit by developing solar and nuclear electricity infrastructure, leveraging its geographical potential for solar expansion and considering nuclear as a robust, low-carbon solution for reliable electricity supply.
History
Historically, Syria's low-carbon electricity has been significantly tied to hydropower. The early 1980s saw modest growth, with incremental increases, peaking with a substantial rise in 1984. The period following 2002 marked a concerning phase of consistent decline, with significant reductions observed in 2002, 2006, 2007, and 2009, indicating a worrisome trajectory. While there were brief recoveries in 2010 and 2011, the recent years have shown fluctuating outputs, with declines again in 2014 and 2015. This history underlines the urgent need to establish a more sustainable and diverse energy mix, emphasizing solar and nuclear investments to stabilize and grow Syria’s low-carbon electricity generation.