As of 2023, Yemen's electricity consumption is alarmingly low, amounting to about 78 kWh per person annually. This figure is a stark contrast to the global average, which stands at 3813 kWh per person. The vast majority of Yemen's electricity, over 90%, is generated from fossil fuels, specifically accounting for roughly 2.55 TWh. Low-carbon or clean electricity generation in Yemen lags significantly, contributing only 13 kWh per person, or close to none in the wider scope of the country's energy mix. This heavy reliance on fossil fuels has dire environmental implications, including contributing to climate change and air pollution. The low levels of electricity consumption can detrimentally affect Yemen's socio-economic development, adversely impacting everything from education and healthcare to industrial growth and internet accessibility, which are essential for modern quality of life.
Is Electricity Growing in Yemen?
Since the peak in 2013, when electricity consumption was 290 kWh per person, Yemen has seen a dramatic decline in energy use, with the latest figure representing a drop of 212 kWh per person. This decline is also evident in the low-carbon energy sector, albeit more modestly, with the most recent numbers down by 1 kWh per person from their 2018 peak of 14 kWh per person. This regression is concerning, as increases in electricity, especially clean electricity, are essential for economic resilience, poverty reduction, and the well-being of the population. It indicates significant challenges in both maintaining the infrastructure necessary for electricity generation and overcoming socio-political hurdles that impede growth in this sector.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Yemen should focus on expanding its solar infrastructure. Solar technology, already deployed in Yemen to some extent, has significant potential given the country's abundant sunlight. Looking globally, countries such as India and Brazil, though not entirely similar to Yemen in terms of size, have made substantial progress in harnessing solar power, generating 134 TWh and 75 TWh respectively. By studying their models of government support, technological partnerships, and private investments, Yemen can tailor strategies that facilitate growth in its solar sector. Additionally, the investment in nuclear power should be considered as a robust complement to solar expansion. These forms of energy not only promise sustainability but can also significantly reduce Yemen's carbon footprint, ushering in a cleaner and more prosperous future.
History
Yemen's history of low-carbon electricity generation reflects a nascent solar sector that has struggled to build momentum. From 2008 through 2014, solar electricity generation experienced virtually no growth. It wasn't until 2015 that a small increase of 0.1 TWh occurred, followed by a brief spike of 0.3 TWh in 2018. Unfortunately, from 2019 through to 2023, there was no further reported growth in solar electricity. This stagnation is troubling, especially in a global context where clean energy is essential for sustainable development. Moving forward, Yemen must prioritize consistent growth in its solar infrastructure and potentially explore nuclear energy as another pillar of its low-carbon strategy.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.