As of 2023, Vanuatu's electricity consumption levels display notable characteristics. The total electricity consumption per person stands at 250 kWh, which is significantly lower than the global average of 3649 kWh. This suggests that electricity generation is relatively limited, affecting the quality of life and economic development, impeding access to modern appliances, education, healthcare, and stalling technological advancement. In terms of the energy mix, low-carbon sources, including solar, contribute around a quarter of the electricity, with fossil fuels making up the rest. This distinction is critical as reliance on fossil energy contributes to air pollution and climate change, issues that can have particularly damaging impacts on island nations vulnerable to rising sea levels.
Data sources used on this page include Ember. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Vanuatu?
Examining recent trends, Vanuatu's electricity consumption has unfortunately decreased from its previous peak in 2019, dropping from 308 to 250 kWh/person in 2023. This decline of 59 kWh/person highlights a concerning downward shift in energy access. Low-carbon electricity generation also decreased, from 103 kWh/person in 2019 to 62 kWh/person in 2023, a decline of 40 kWh/person. Such reductions suggest a setback in the adoption of sustainable, low-carbon electricity—critical for both environmental stewardship and mitigating dependency on fossil fuels. Without proactive measures, Vanuatu risks falling further behind in energy access and sustainability.
Suggestions
To propel low-carbon electricity generation, Vanuatu can focus on expanding its solar capabilities, given these are already producing substantial electricity. There is much to learn from regions like China and the United States, where solar and nuclear power generation are significant contributors to their electricity supply, demonstrating leadership in harnessing clean, sustainable energy. The immense potential observed with China's solar and wind outputs (1117 TWh and 1090 TWh, respectively), alongside the United States' substantial nuclear production (781 TWh), exemplifies paths that Vanuatu could emulate. By fostering collaborations, investing in technology, and capitalizing on its abundant sunlight, Vanuatu could enhance its sustainable energy footprint considerably, moving towards a greener, more resilient electricity network.
History
Reflecting on the history of low-carbon electricity in Vanuatu, there's a consistent pattern of stagnation over the past decade. Data from 2013 onward for wind, hydro, and solar energy shows no reported changes in electricity generation, reflecting neither growth nor expansion in these areas. The absence of any fluctuation is alarming and indicates missed opportunities in capitalizing on low-carbon technologies. This static state signifies a crucial need for strategic development and investments in green technologies such as solar and potentially nuclear, which could assure sustainable growth in the coming decades. By prioritizing these clean energy solutions, Vanuatu can foster a robust electricity sector geared towards long-term resilience and sustainability.
