In 2022, New Caledonia's electricity consumption was heavily dependent on fossil energy sources, which accounted for more than three-quarters of the electricity generated. Coal alone contributed to over a third of the total electricity provision. However, clean energy sources, such as hydropower, solar, and wind, collectively made up just over a quarter of the electricity supply. Among the clean energy sources, hydropower was the most significant, representing almost a fifth of the electricity generated. Solar energy accounted for just under 10% of the electricity supply, while wind contributed a minimal share.
Is Electricity Growing in New Caledonia?
Electricity consumption in New Caledonia has experienced a downturn, which is concerning. In 2022, per capita electricity consumption was around 10,763 kWh, which represented a significant decrease from the 2018 peak of 12,345 kWh per person. This decline of over 1,500 kWh per person indicates shrinking overall electricity use, despite a promising increase in low-carbon electricity generation. From 2021 to 2022, per capita low-carbon electricity generation rose by 542 kWh, reaching 2,821 kWh per person. This increase is hopeful, yet it emphasizes the need for further growth in sustainable electricity to meet future demands.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, New Caledonia could draw inspiration from regions excelling in generating solar and nuclear electricity. For example, Lebanon's impressive implementation of solar power results in 31% of their electricity from solar, while France leads with nearly 70% of electricity sourced from nuclear power. By leveraging these strategies, New Caledonia can expand its solar infrastructure and consider the introduction or expansion of nuclear facilities. Learning from countries like these might enable New Caledonia to achieve a more sustainable and reliable electricity system and could be instrumental in reducing reliance on fossil fuels, curbing climate change, and improving air quality.
History
Historically, New Caledonia's journey toward low-carbon electricity has been marked by various developments, with hydropower showing fluctuations over the years. During the 2000s, hydropower contributions saw slight variations, with an equivalent of positive and negative changes, totaling little net increase. However, in the last few years, there have been positive strides, with incremental additions to both solar and hydroelectric capacity. The inclusion of solar energy in 2019 and its continued growth by 2022 indicates a positive trajectory towards diversifying clean energy sources. These steps illustrate New Caledonia's gradual yet crucial transition towards a more sustainable electricity mix.