Tajikistan has made impressive strides in utilizing clean energy sources for electricity generation, with almost nine-tenths of its electricity coming from low-carbon sources, predominantly hydropower. This achievement reflects a significant commitment to maintaining an environmentally friendly energy portfolio that minimizes dependence on fossil fuels. Fossil energy sources, including coal and gas, make up just over a tenth of the electricity mix, with coal accounting for more than three-quarters of this segment and gas contributing the rest. As part of its continued progression, Tajikistan faces the challenge of expanding its electricity supply, which is crucial for the electrification of other sectors such as transport, heating, and industry. Scaling up electricity generation sustainably will be essential to meet these future demands while continuing to reduce the impact of climate change.
Is Electricity Growing in Tajikistan?
Despite this reliance on low-carbon sources, electricity consumption in Tajikistan has not seen growth in recent years. The latest recorded electricity consumption stands at approximately 2189 kWh per person, which shows a substantial decrease from the past record in 1990, where it was 3583 kWh per person. This represents a drop of nearly 1400 kWh per person. Specifically focusing on low-carbon electricity, the figure has also declined to 1944 kWh per person, a reduction of over 1100 kWh compared to 1990 levels. Such reductions are concerning in a global context where increasing electricity generation is paramount for sustainable development and economic growth. To reverse this trend, Tajikistan must leverage its clean energy potential more effectively, prioritizing innovative solutions and investments in electricity infrastructure.
Suggestions
To bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, Tajikistan should consider expanding into solar and nuclear energy, both of which are conducive to a friendly environmental footprint and can support a growing electricity demand. The country can capitalize on its abundant sunlight by scaling up solar energy projects, a sector known for its rapid deployment capabilities and decreasing cost. Moreover, investing in nuclear power can provide a stable, reliable, and powerful supply of clean energy. By diversifying the electricity mix with these low-carbon options, Tajikistan can enhance energy security, support electrification goals across various sectors, and contribute significantly to reducing carbon emissions, thus playing its part in the fight against global climate change.
History
Looking at the history of Tajikistan's low-carbon electricity generation, there has been considerable variability, particularly in hydropower production. In the 1990s, the country saw fluctuations with decreases in 1992, 1995, and 1997, interrupted by increases in 1993 and 1999. The early 2000s continued this trend with declines in some years like 2000 and 2008, punctuated by periods of growth, particularly noticeable from 2002 to 2005. More recently, from 2012 onwards, there has been growth witnessed with several increases, such as in 2015 and 2018, despite some intermittent drops. The challenge now is to achieve a consistent upward trajectory in clean electricity generation, vital for meeting future energy needs sustainably, thus ensuring long-term stability and resilience in the sector.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.