Electricity in Afghanistan in 2023
In Afghanistan, electricity consumption remains notably low, with total electricity consumption in 2023 approximately at 173 kWh per person. This is significantly below the global average of 3781 kWh per person, reflecting a stark disparity and indicating challenges in meeting electricity needs. Additionally, the country is heavily reliant on imports, with 6.22 TWh being sourced from external providers to supplement domestic shortages. The generation profile is tilted towards fossil fuels, with close to none of the electricity coming from low-carbon sources, thereby aggravating concerns about environmental sustainability. Such low levels of electricity generation can hinder economic growth, limit technological advancements, and reduce quality of life, emphasizing the need to expand electricity access and promote cleaner sources.
Is Electricity Growing in Afghanistan?
The marginal increase in per capita electricity consumption in Afghanistan—from 169 kWh in 2021 to 173 kWh in 2023—indicates slow growth. While this is an increase, the factors contributing to the rise are not primarily driven by clean energy advancements; rather, there's a troubling decline from previous records of low-carbon electricity generation. In 1990, low-carbon electricity generation was at 66 kWh per person, whereas in 2023, it declined significantly to 20 kWh per person. This decline of 46 kWh reflects inadequate focus and investment in advancing and maintaining green energy infrastructure, posing a challenge for sustainable energy transition.
Suggestions
To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Afghanistan can learn from successful regions around the world, particularly focusing on the potential of solar and nuclear energy. India and the People's Republic of China serve as exemplary models, with substantial investments in solar energy yielding significant returns, generating 150 TWh and 890 TWh respectively. The People's Republic of China and France have also been successful in nuclear energy generation with outputs of 443 TWh and 363 TWh respectively. By adopting policies that encourage the development of similar clean energy projects, Afghanistan can diversify its energy mix, reduce reliance on imports, and ensure steady growth in electricity generation. Focusing on solar energy can also be beneficial due to the country's climate, while exploring nuclear projects can provide a stable and constant source of green energy.
History
Historically, Afghanistan's low-carbon electricity generation has faced various fluctuations, primarily within the hydropower sector. In the early 1990s, there were minor setbacks with slight declines in hydropower output in 1991, 1992, and 1995. The following decade saw similar patterns with occasional increases, such as in 2001 and 2009, but these were mitigated by subsequent declines, including notable downturns in 2008 and 2018. This inconsistent growth in hydropower highlights the need for strategic investments and diversification into other sustainable energy sources such as solar and nuclear. By learning from global leaders and committing to the advancement of green technologies, Afghanistan can build a robust and resilient electricity sector that addresses current shortcomings and prepares for future demands.