Electricity in Timor-Leste in 2022

In the year 2022, electricity consumption in Timor-Leste was heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with almost all of the electricity being generated from oil or other fossil sources. Interestingly, low-carbon or clean energy sources, like wind, solar, and hydroelectric power, made up close to none of the electricity generation mix in this Southeast Asian nation. This dependency on fossil fuels not only impacts the environment by contributing to climate change and air pollution but also poses a risk to energy security and price stability. When compared to the global average of 3638 watts per person, Timor-Leste’s electricity consumption is significantly lower, indicating limited access for its population. Such low levels of electricity generation can hinder economic development, restrict access to essential services, and impede initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for the country's inhabitants.

Suggestions

To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Timor-Leste could look at the success stories of other nations. For instance, the People's Republic of China has made considerable strides in harnessing wind and solar power, generating 1003 TWh and 710 TWh respectively. Similarly, India has also focused on wind and solar energy, producing 91 TWh from wind and 128 TWh from solar power. Brazil's advancements in utilizing wind energy, generating over 100 TWh, can serve as an inspiration for Timor-Leste, as both countries share challenges such as rural electrification and similar climate conditions that are conducive to solar and wind installations. Additionally, countries like France and South Korea have demonstrated the role of nuclear energy in creating a stable and significant low-carbon electricity base. By learning from these examples and strategically investing in clean technologies, Timor-Leste can transition toward a more sustainable electricity system.

History

Historically, low-carbon electricity generation in Timor-Leste has seen negligible changes, which is evident from the lack of data on significant developments in the sector over the past decades. While some countries made progressive investments in clean technologies and saw substantial upticks in their low-carbon electricity generation, Timor-Leste seems to have lagged behind. Notable countries like Brazil, China, and India have harnessed both wind and solar power in recent years, but similar advancements are not yet apparent in Timor-Leste's electricity landscape. This historical context underscores the importance of initiating strategic clean energy projects now for the transition toward a sustainable energy future. Such initiatives require government commitment, international cooperation, and community engagement to lay the groundwork for a resilient and greener electricity system.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources