Electricity in Syria in 2022

As of 2022, Syria's electricity consumption predominantly relies on fossil fuels, with 16 TWh generated from fossil sources and 9 TWh from gas. This means that the vast majority of Syria's electricity is coming from fossil fuels, with close to none produced from low-carbon sources. With a relatively small population, the electricity consumption per person in Syria is considerably less than the global average of 432 watts/person. The low levels of electricity generation can significantly impact the nation, leading to limited industrial development, reduced quality of life, and potential health risks due to inadequate lighting, heating, and cooling.

Suggestions

To improve its low-carbon electricity generation, Syria can learn from the experiences of other countries that have successfully expanded their clean energy sources. For instance, China and the United States have made substantial investments in wind and solar power, producing 886 TWh and 238 TWh from wind and solar, respectively. Similarly, nuclear energy has been a key contributor in countries like France and South Korea, delivering 336 TWh and 180 TWh, respectively. Countries with similar climates and economic conditions, such as India, have effectively utilized solar energy to produce 113 TWh. Adopting policies that encourage investment in solar, wind, and nuclear energy could help Syria transition towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy system.

History

Historically, Syria's use of low-carbon electricity sources has been inconsistent, especially with its hydroelectric generation. In the early 1980s, there were modest increases, with 0.1 TWh in 1981 and 0.3 TWh in 1982. However, this growth was not sustained, evident from fluctuations in subsequent decades. Notably, there were periods of significant decline, such as in 2002, 2008, and 2015, where hydroelectric generation dropped by 1 TWh, 0.6 TWh, and 1.9 TWh, respectively. These declines underscore the need for a more consistent and diversified approach to low-carbon electricity generation in Syria to ensure a reliable and sustainable energy future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources