Electricity in Bahrain in 2023
In 2023, the electricity consumption landscape in Bahrain is dominated by fossil fuels, with gas alone accounting for virtually all electricity generation—specifically, about 99.72%. This overwhelming reliance on fossil fuels has significant implications for the country's carbon emissions and environmental impact. On the other hand, low-carbon energy sources contribute close to none in terms of overall electricity production, indicating a nascent stage for clean energy development. The stark contrast between the current reliance on fossil fuels and the minimal presence of low-carbon alternatives underlines the vast potential for growth in sustainable energy solutions like solar and nuclear power.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Bahrain?
When assessing whether electricity consumption is growing in Bahrain, recent data suggests a slight decline. In 2023, the per capita electricity consumption is 23,050 kWh, which shows a decrease compared to the 2022 record of 23,288 kWh. This drop by 238 kWh per person could signal either a plateau in energy demand or efficiency improvements. Nevertheless, on an encouraging note, Bahrain's generation of low-carbon electricity saw a modest increase, improving from 52 kWh per person in 2022 to 57 kWh in 2023. This incremental rise in low-carbon generation is a step towards diversifying the country's energy mix and reducing its carbon footprint.
Suggestions
To increase the share of low-carbon electricity, Bahrain can look to other regions for inspiration. Countries like France and Slovakia, which have significant portions of their electricity generated from nuclear energy, exemplify how nuclear power can efficiently and sustainably contribute to a green energy portfolio. Bahrain, with its abundant sunshine, could also emulate solar energy leaders like Lebanon and Cyprus, where solar power contributes notably to their electricity supply. By strategically investing in solar and exploring nuclear options, Bahrain can make great strides in reducing its dependence on fossil fuels and mitigating the adverse effects of climate change, while also bolstering its energy security.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Bahrain indicates a stagnant growth in recent years. From 2021 through 2023, the country has not seen any increase in solar electricity generation, as the changes have been recorded at zero TWh each year. This stagnation highlights the critical need for policy reforms and investments in clean energy infrastructure to harness Bahrain's renewable potential. With global trends favoring an expansion of solar and nuclear energy, Bahraini policymakers have an opportunity to pivot towards these sustainable energy sources, ensuring that future electricity demands are met responsibly and sustainably.
