In the Philippines, electricity consumption in 2024 shows a heavy reliance on fossil fuels, with more than three-quarters of the electricity being generated from fossil sources like coal and gas. Coal alone accounts for over 60% of the electricity, while gas contributes to around 15%. On the other hand, clean or low-carbon energy sources are responsible for a little over 22% of the electricity generation. Geothermal and hydropower are the main contributors within the clean energy category, accounting for nearly 8% and 9% respectively. Solar energy, despite its potential, provides only a marginal 3% of the nation's electricity. This significant gap between fossil and low-carbon electricity underscores the need for a strategic shift towards more sustainable energy generation, which would also help mitigate air pollution and combat climate change.
Data sources used on this page include Ember, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Philippines?
The growth trajectory of electricity consumption in the Philippines is currently upward, with 2024 seeing a notable increase to 1,045 kWh per person, up from the 2023 record of 975 kWh per person. This growth reflects increased electricity demand and use, likely influenced by factors such as economic growth and technological advances. However, the share of low-carbon electricity per person has slightly decreased compared to its historical high in 2000, now standing at 231 kWh per person. This decline is concerning, given the global shift towards clean energy sources for both environmental and strategic reasons. The need to bolster the Philippines' low-carbon electricity generation is clear, especially as the country works to sustain electric growth and address the challenges of climate change.
Suggestions
To significantly boost low-carbon electricity generation, the Philippines could learn from various world regions with successful clean energy strategies. For instance, regions like Nevada and California, which generate up to or nearly a third of their electricity from solar power, offer compelling models for solar energy expansion. Similarly, the effective deployment of nuclear energy in countries like France, where it accounts for 70% of electricity generation, demonstrates the potential for nuclear energy to provide substantial clean electricity. By investing in both solar and nuclear technologies, the Philippines can diversify its energy mix, reduce dependency on fossil fuels, and ensure a sustainable and robust electricity supply.
History
Historically, the Philippines has seen fluctuations in its low-carbon electricity generation. The 1980s and 1990s showed a combination of gains from hydropower, with significant increases in certain years, although these were offset by occasional declines. The late 1990s saw growth in geothermal energy, notably in 1998 and 1999. Moving into the 21st century, the country experienced continued variability, with occasional increases in hydropower but also notable reductions. More recently, strides have been made in solar energy, with consecutive advancements recorded in 2016 and 2024. Despite past fluctuations, the need to steadily grow low-carbon electricity generation remains imperative as the Philippines looks towards a sustainable energy future.
