Electricity in Yemen in 2022

In 2022, Yemen's electricity consumption was primarily driven by fossil fuels, producing approximately 2.35 TWh of electricity. This dependence on fossil energy aligns with global challenges related to climate change and air pollution. Currently, close to none of Yemen's electricity is derived from low-carbon sources. Consequently, the amount of electricity generated per person in Yemen is likely significantly lower than the global average of around 3,606 watts per person. Such low levels of generation are likely to lead to challenges in economic development and everyday life, such as limited access to reliable energy, which can hinder industrial growth, healthcare, education services, and overall quality of life for Yemenis.

Suggestions

Increasing Yemen's low-carbon electricity generation can follow successful models from other countries. Solar energy stands out as a substantial opportunity for Yemen, given its abundant sunshine. Yemen could look to India, where solar power substantially contributes 125 TWh, or Australia, with 49 TWh from solar sources, to understand strategic implementations that boost solar electricity production. Additionally, the success seen in nations like the United Arab Emirates and Pakistan, which have adopted nuclear energy generating 32 TWh and 23 TWh respectively, offers a path for Yemen to consider nuclear energy as a long-term investment in clean power. Combining efforts to harness wind energy, as seen in countries like Brazil and India, could further diversify Yemen's low-carbon electricity portfolio, ensuring a stronger and more sustainable energy future.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Yemen has been minimal, with sporadic and limited advancements in solar power over recent years. For much of the early 21st century, the contribution of solar power to Yemen's electricity generation remained stagnant, registering no increase from 2008 to 2014. A minor breakthrough occurred with a modest rise of 0.1 TWh in 2015, followed by a brief surge in 2018 with an increase of 0.3 TWh. However, these gains were not sustained in subsequent years, as the growth stalled, and the solar generation saw fluctuations with zero growth in some years, including 2022. This history outlines the urgent need for dedicated policies and investments to bolster the consistent and meaningful development of Yemen's low-carbon electricity infrastructure.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources