Electricity in Syria in 2022
In 2022, Syria's electricity landscape was predominantly powered by fossil fuels. With more than 95% of its electricity coming from fossil sources, close to 40% was specifically generated from gas. In contrast, a very small portion, a mere 4%, came from low-carbon or clean sources. Among these, hydropower remained the sole contributor to the low-carbon mix, representing roughly 4% of the total electricity supply. The dependency on fossil fuels highlights Syria's need to explore and expand more sustainable and long-term viable options for electricity generation.
Is Electricity Growing in Syria?
The trend in Syria's electricity consumption shows a concerning decline from its previous peak in 2010. The most recent data reveals electricity usage at 894 kWh per person, a staggering drop from the 2066 kWh per person recorded in 2010. This decline, with a decrease of about 1,172 kWh per person, underlines challenges in the sector. The low-carbon segment has also seen a significant fall, from a peak of 322 kWh per person in 1984 to only 39 kWh per person in 2022, illustrating a reduction of 283 kWh per person. These declines suggest that Syria's electricity infrastructure is struggling, and current levels are far from satisfying contemporary and future electricity needs.
Suggestions
To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Syria could look to regions that have successfully integrated solar and nuclear energy into their grids. Learning from countries like Lebanon, which generates 31% of its electricity from solar, and the robust nuclear strategies seen in nations such as France, with 69% from nuclear, could guide development strategies. With abundant sunshine, solar energy stands as a promising area for expansion in Syria. Simultaneously, establishing a nuclear power infrastructure, akin to that in Armenia and Bulgaria, where nuclear contributes around 30% and 40% respectively, could offer a stable and clean electricity supply. These steps would not only diversify Syria's energy portfolio but also mitigate the adverse effects of fossil fuel dependence, contributing to a cleaner environment and energy security for the future.
History
In terms of history, Syria's low-carbon electricity, primarily based on hydropower, saw initial growth in the early 1980s, with gradual increments. However, the following years experienced mixed outcomes, with notable declines in the late 2000s and mid-2010s. Of particular note, the year 2002 marked a significant drop of 1 TWh, and further declines became apparent again in 2006 and 2007, which were a cause for concern. Recovery attempts in 2010 and 2011 brought temporary relief, but subsequent declines, especially in 2014 and 2015, negated progress. The fluctuations reflect a lack of consistent development and point to the necessity for comprehensive and sustainable planning in continuing low-carbon electricity growth.