Electricity in Turkmenistan in 2023
In 2023, electricity consumption in Turkmenistan is overwhelmingly dominated by fossil fuels, specifically natural gas, which accounts for more than 99% of the country's electricity generation. There is an almost negligible contribution from low-carbon sources, highlighting a heavy reliance on fossil energy with close to none derived from clean energy options. This reliance exhibits a critical need for diversification towards more sustainable electricity sources, as the challenges associated with fossil fuels, such as climate change and air pollution, continue to escalate globally.
Data sources used on this page include Ember, Energy Institute and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Turkmenistan?
Turkmenistan's electricity consumption per capita has seen a slight increase, reaching 4,588 kWh per person in 2023, up by 79 kWh from 2022. While this represents a growth in overall electricity use, it contrasts starkly with a significant decline in low-carbon electricity generation. The current figure for low-carbon electricity is just 1 kWh per person, a substantial drop from the 186 kWh per person recorded back in 1990. This decline of 185 kWh calls attention to the pressing need for Turkmenistan to rejuvenate its low-carbon electricity sector, ensuring it is part of the solution for future energy consumption demands.
Suggestions
Turkmenistan could significantly benefit from studying successful countries utilizing nuclear and solar energy. For example, countries like France and Slovakia generate more than half of their electricity from nuclear power, presenting a robust model for substantial clean electricity generation. Additionally, states such as Nevada and California have integrated solar power to generate up to one-third of their electricity from the sun. By considering both nuclear and solar, Turkmenistan can progress towards a sustainable future, leveraging these examples to not only meet its electricity needs but also play a part in addressing global environmental challenges.
History
Historically, Turkmenistan's low-carbon electricity generation was primarily driven by hydroelectric power, with its most notable increase occurring in 1990 when it surged by 0.7 TWh. However, this progress was immediately followed by a drop of the same magnitude in 1992, leading to a prolonged period of stagnation. No further improvements in hydroelectric generation have been recorded up to 2023, marking over three decades of inactive low-carbon development. This stagnation in clean energy advancement is concerning and underscores the necessity for tangible actions to rejuvenate and expand the sector, particularly by prioritizing nuclear and solar energy to embrace a cleaner electricity future.
