Electricity in Syria in 2022
The current state of electricity consumption in Syria is heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with a substantial 96% coming from these sources. Out of this, gas accounts for almost 38%, making it a significant portion of the country's energy supply. On the clean energy front, low-carbon energy contributes a mere 4%, with hydropower providing roughly 4% of Syria's electricity. The reliance on fossil fuels suggests a pressing need for transitioning to more sustainable energy sources, especially given the environmental impacts associated with heavy fossil fuel usage.
Is Electricity Growing in Syria?
When examining the trajectory of electricity consumption in Syria, the figures reveal a stark decrease from past highs. In 2022, the per capita electricity consumption stood at 894 kWh, which is significantly down by over 1,100 kWh compared to the 2010 record of 2,066 kWh. The situation is similarly concerning for low-carbon electricity generation, which dropped from a previous high of 322 kWh per person in 1984 to just 39 kWh per person in 2022. These declines raise concerns regarding the country's energy resilience and its ability to meet future demands sustainably.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Syria could adopt practices from other regions that successfully harness solar and nuclear energy. For instance, Lebanon's use of solar energy accounts for nearly a third of its electricity, showing the potential for solar in a region with similar climate conditions. Additionally, nuclear-powered countries like South Korea and Slovakia, which generate over 30% of their electricity through nuclear energy, could serve as models if Syria looks to incorporate more nuclear energy. The expansion of both solar and nuclear power could offer Syria pathways to significantly reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and contribute to a cleaner energy future.
History
In the history of low-carbon electricity in Syria, hydropower has seen fluctuations over the decades. In the early 1980s, hydropower contributions showed gradual increases, peaking with a notable rise in 1984. However, the subsequent years were characterized by periods of decline, notably in the early 2000s and mid-2010s. These patterns highlight the inconsistent progress in establishing a stable low-carbon electricity generation base. Efforts in sustaining gains, especially in hydropower, could be critical in augmenting the share of clean energy in Syria's electricity mix.