In 2023, electricity consumption in Papua New Guinea is primarily reliant on fossil fuels, with more than three-quarters of the electricity generated, about 76%, coming from this source. Low-carbon energy, which includes hydropower and geothermal, contributes a smaller portion, with just under a quarter of the total electricity generation. Within the low-carbon category, hydropower is the leading source, accounting for more than one-fifth, or approximately 21%, of the country's electricity. Geothermal power plays a minor role, with just over 2%, showing that while there is some effort towards cleaner energy, it is still relatively modest compared to the heavy dependency on fossil fuels.
Data sources used on this page include EIA and Ember. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Papua New Guinea?
When it comes to electricity growth, Papua New Guinea seems to be experiencing a downward trend. In 2023, the electricity consumption per person is 455 kWh, which is notably lower than the 555 kWh per person recorded in 2004. This demonstrates a decline in the overall electricity availability or consumption per capita by 99 kWh over nearly two decades. The situation is similar with low-carbon electricity, which has dropped significantly from its peak in 1995 when it was 194 kWh per person, now standing at 108 kWh per person—a decline by 86 kWh. This stagnation is concerning, as it highlights a need for significant steps to revitalize and grow the electricity sector to meet future demands.
Suggestions
For Papua New Guinea to enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, it must look towards regions that have excelled in clean energy. Countries like North Macedonia have nearly half of their electricity generated from solar power, while Denmark harnesses wind energy to produce 60% of their electricity. By investing in solar and wind technologies, Papua New Guinea can take advantage of its geographic location and climate, which are conducive to these energy forms. Moreover, considering nuclear energy as a sustainable option, as seen in France where two-thirds of electricity comes from nuclear power, can provide a reliable and consistent energy supply. By adopting such diversified strategies, Papua New Guinea can significantly expand its clean energy footprint and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.
History
Historically, Papua New Guinea's journey with low-carbon electricity has seen periods of growth and contraction. In the 1980s, the country experienced small yet positive increments in hydropower, which saw slight fluctuations over the years. The introduction of geothermal energy in the early 2000s marked a new chapter, with a notable increase in 2005. However, both sources experienced declines in various periods, including significant reductions in geothermal in 2018. The early 2020s have seen a renewed effort to boost hydropower, although challenges remain evident. These historical shifts show a sporadic yet hopeful trajectory towards embracing green energy, emphasizing the importance of consistent and proactive investment in sustainable energy sources moving forward.
