In 2022, electricity consumption in Kiribati remains significantly below the global average, with each person using around 307 kWh in contrast to the world's average of approximately 3649 kWh per person. Close to a quarter of Kiribati's electricity consumption is derived from low-carbon sources, particularly solar, while the rest relies on fossil fuels. This stark difference highlights the challenges faced by the nation, as lower levels of electricity generation can impede economic development, limit access to modern amenities, and restrain efforts in sectors like education and healthcare, where more energy is essential for progress. Additionally, it places Kiribati at a disadvantage in reducing its reliance on environmentally harmful fossil fuels, which contribute to climate change and local air pollution, posing health risks.
Data sources used on this page include Ember. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Kiribati?
Electricity consumption in Kiribati has seen a slight downturn recently, with the consumption per person decreasing from 323 kWh in 2019 to 307 kWh in 2022. This decline of 16 kWh is evident in both total electricity usage and the low-carbon segment, where solar generation per person has marginally decreased from 81 kWh in 2019 to 77 kWh in 2022. This decrease, though slight, is concerning as it indicates a stagnation in the transition to cleaner energy, which is crucial for future growth and sustainability. The need for robust strategies to increase both overall and clean electricity generation is critical if Kiribati is to maintain its developmental trajectory and tackle environmental challenges.
Suggestions
To address these challenges, Kiribati could significantly benefit from expanding its existing solar infrastructure, which already contributes a notable portion of its low-carbon electricity. Learning from international successes, countries like Japan and states such as California have leveraged solar technology with great efficacy, generating substantial clean electricity. Additionally, while not currently pursued due to various constraints, consideration of nuclear energy as demonstrated by France and Illinois could play an essential role in a long-term strategy for sustainable energy independence and security. Such expansions in solar and potential future investments in nuclear energy could substantially bolster Kiribati's low-carbon portfolio, ensuring a more stable and environmentally friendly electrical grid.
History
Historically, the transition to low-carbon electricity in Kiribati has shown resilience yet also stagnation. Over the recent years from 2019 to 2022, there has been a continuity in solar electricity generation, with no substantial changes in output. Despite being a consistent part of Kiribati's energy mix, these stable figures from year to year indicate a stagnation rather than the growth needed to meet future demands. These years of unchanged solar output highlight an urgent need for proactive measures to invigorate and expand clean electricity generation capacity, supporting a move toward a more sustainable and self-sufficient energy future.
