In 2022, the electricity consumption on the Faroe Islands showed a significant reliance on fossil fuels, with more than half of the electricity generated from these sources. However, the islands are making strides toward clean energy with close to half of their electricity produced by low-carbon sources. Breaking it down further, hydropower accounts for over a quarter of the electricity mix and wind energy nearly a fifth. This data highlights a promising start towards transitioning to more sustainable energy sources while still being heavily dependent on fossil fuels.
Data sources used on this page include Ember. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Faroe Islands?
Electricity consumption in the Faroe Islands is on the rise, as evidenced by the increase in consumption from 8070 kWh per person in 2021 to 8891 kWh per person in 2022. This growth of 821 kWh per person is notable, indicating an upward trend in energy use. Simultaneously, the expansion in low-carbon electricity generation is encouraging, increasing by 187 kWh per person compared to the previous high in 2015. These statistics show a positive shift toward cleaner energy sources, a critical step in reducing the islands' carbon footprint and addressing climate change.
Suggestions
To further augment low-carbon electricity generation, Faroe Islands could benefit significantly from expanding its wind operations, given its current contribution to the islands' clean energy output. Looking globally for inspiration, regions such as Denmark, which derives nearly half of its electricity from wind, provide valuable examples. While currently having no nuclear energy, the Faroe Islands could consider the successful integration of nuclear energy seen in countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear accounts for a major portion of clean electricity. Exploring solar energy, which has shown efficacy in regions such as Lebanon and Nevada, with solar comprising around 30% of their electricity, could also expand the islands' low-carbon portfolio.
History
Reviewing the history of low-carbon electricity on Faroe Islands, there have been years of no significant changes in hydro and wind generation from 2002 through 2022. During these two decades, the islands saw stagnant growth in these green energy sources. The data highlights the absence of transformative development in this area, emphasizing an urgent need for a strong push towards increasing the share of low-carbon electricity to meet modern energy demands and align with global standards for sustainability. This historical stagnation underpins the necessity for future strategies to embrace more dynamic changes in the islands' energy infrastructure.
