As of 2022, electricity consumption in Kiribati is significantly lower than the global average, with a total consumption of 307 kWh per person compared to the global average of 3781 kWh per person. This low level of electricity consumption indicates a reliance on fossil fuels, with less than a quarter coming from low-carbon sources. Almost all of the low-carbon electricity generated in Kiribati is derived from solar energy, highlighting a commendable effort to move toward clean energy solutions. However, the overall low level of electricity generation could hinder economic development and the quality of life in Kiribati, as access to reliable and sufficient electricity is fundamental for powering homes, businesses, and essential services.
Is Electricity Growing in Kiribati?
Analyzing recent trends reveals a concerning stagnation in Kiribati's electricity growth. In 2022, electricity consumption per person decreased by 16 kWh from the 2019 record of 323 kWh per person. The low-carbon electricity generation also slightly declined by 4 kWh per person from the 81 kWh recorded in 2019. This decline indicates a troubling trend, as it suggests that Kiribati is not expanding its electricity infrastructure sufficiently to keep up with potential future demand. A lack of growth in clean electricity generation is especially disappointing, as it prevents the reduction of fossil fuel dependency and delays the economic and environmental benefits associated with clean energy.
Suggestions
To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Kiribati should focus on expanding its solar energy infrastructure, already a significant contributor to the nation's clean energy output. Kiribati can draw inspiration from regions that have succeeded in expanding their clean energy portfolios. For instance, Australia has successfully integrated significant solar capacity, generating 50 TWh from solar in recent data. Moreover, a look at Brazil and other countries that have expanded their low-carbon infrastructure demonstrates the substantial potential of combining solar with other clean energy sources like wind and nuclear. The country's geographic and climatic conditions provide an excellent opportunity to emulate these success stories, further reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Kiribati highlights stagnation over the past few years. Since 2019, solar generation has not seen any changes, with zero net growth recorded each year from 2019 to 2022. The lack of progression in solar energy generation over these years represents missed opportunities to further develop Kiribati's clean energy capacity. This persistent stagnation calls for a renewed commitment to expanding solar energy and exploring additional low-carbon sources like wind and nuclear energy, ensuring a sustainable energy future that can support both environmental and economic development goals.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.