In 2022, the electricity consumption landscape in the Faroe Islands shows a reliance on fossil fuels for more than half of its energy, with about 54% coming from these sources. On the positive side, the nation also has a considerable low-carbon footprint in its electricity generation. Close to half, specifically about 46%, of the electricity is generated from clean energy sources such as hydropower and wind. Hydropower contributes more than a quarter, at 27%, while wind energy accounts for almost a fifth, or 19%, of the total electricity consumed. This distribution highlights the Faroe Islands' gradual but promising shift towards more low-carbon electricity sources, although it still relies significantly on fossil fuels.
Data sources used on this page include Ember. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Faroe Islands?
The electricity consumption per person in the Faroe Islands increased in 2022, suggesting growth in its overall electricity usage. The total consumption recorded was 8891 kWh per person, an increase of 821 kWh per person from the historic record in 2021. This rise indicates a positive trend in electricity consumption, reflecting the growing demands perhaps attributed to advancements in electrification and AI technologies. Low-carbon electricity generation per person also saw an increase, reaching 4075 kWh per person in 2022, up from the record set in 2015. This growth of 187 kWh per person in low-carbon electricity showcases a constructive shift towards cleaner electricity sources.
Suggestions
To further increase its low-carbon electricity generation, the Faroe Islands could focus on expanding its existing wind energy infrastructure. Drawing inspiration from regions like Denmark, where wind power constitutes 55% of the total electricity generation, the Faroe Islands could set a similar target or even exceed it with strategic investments in wind technology. Additionally, the Faroe Islands can explore the potential for solar energy expansion, taking cues from regions like California and Chile where solar contributes significantly to their energy mix at 29% and 24%, respectively. Furthermore, integrating nuclear energy into their energy strategy could provide a stable, large-scale, low-carbon source of electricity, as seen in countries such as France and Slovakia, with their high reliance on nuclear power.
History
Throughout the early 21st century, the Faroe Islands maintained a consistent level of low-carbon electricity generation without significant changes in hydropower or wind energy output. From 2002 to 2016, there was no recorded increase in hydropower or wind electricity generation, indicating a period of stagnation in the growth of low-carbon electricity. The years following this period also did not show significant changes, with biofuels making an appearance in 2021 without contributing to an increase. In 2022, the trend continued with neither wind nor hydroelectric output rising. The consistent lack of growth in these sectors over two decades signals a need for renewed focus and investment to bolster the Faroe Islands' clean energy capacity and reduce its dependency on fossil fuels.
