Electricity in Yemen in 2023
In 2023, Yemen's electricity consumption remained heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with fossil-based sources generating approximately 2.55 TWh. This reliance on fossil fuels constitutes almost all of Yemen's electricity generation, as low-carbon sources such as solar, wind, or nuclear energy contribute close to none towards the overall energy mix. In contrast, the global average of electricity consumption stands at about 3813 watts per person, highlighting Yemen's significant lag behind in its per capita electricity availability. This low level of electricity generation can have widespread repercussions, including stunted economic growth, poor healthcare outcomes due to lack of reliable power, and limited educational opportunities, all exacerbating the existing challenges faced by Yemen's population.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Yemen can significantly expand its use of solar power, which has already begun to see some growth in the region. Learning from countries like India, which generates considerable electricity using solar technologies (134 TWh), Yemen can implement similar strategies to harness its abundant sunlight. China is another exemplar with its significant solar (834 TWh) and wind (992 TWh) generation, showing a robust commitment to expanding low-carbon energy. By analyzing these successful models, Yemen can devise strategies to foster a similar expansion, ensuring a more sustainable and independent energy future.
History
Historically, Yemen's journey with low-carbon electricity generation has been minimal. Solar energy, the only significant low-carbon technology recorded, showed no change in generation from 2008 until 2014. It wasn't until 2015 that solar power contributed an additional 0.1 TWh, followed by a further 0.3 TWh in 2018. However, subsequent years showed stagnation with zero additional solar power generation from 2019 onward. This history underscores the pressing need for Yemen to not only restart its efforts in low-carbon electricity production but also consistently build upon these efforts to ensure a steady transition towards a sustainable energy future.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.