Lesotho's electricity consumption is notably low, with the latest figures from 2022 showing an average use of 398 kWh per person. This is a tiny fraction compared to the global average of 3,662 kWh per person. Low-carbon or clean energy contributes more than half of Lesotho's electricity generation, primarily from hydroelectric sources, while the rest is made up of fossil energies that contribute negatively to climate change and air pollution. The consequences of such low levels of electricity generation can be significant, hindering economic growth, limiting educational opportunities, and restricting access to modern amenities, which rely increasingly on electricity. This insufficiency in electricity generation is particularly concerning in the context of ongoing global electrification and the rise of artificial intelligence, which demand more power.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and Enerdata. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Lesotho?
Despite global trends toward increased electricity usage, electricity consumption in Lesotho is unfortunately declining. In 2022, consumption per person stood at 398 kWh, a decline of 48 kWh from the peak reached in 2010. Low-carbon electricity generation has also contracted, from a high of 346 kWh per person in 2010 to 210 kWh in 2022, representing a significant decrease of 136 kWh. These declines are troubling, especially when societies worldwide are ramping up their low-carbon energy portfolios to cope with the ever-growing demand and curb climate change. Lesotho's sluggish growth is particularly disappointing in a world increasingly powered by clean energy.
Suggestions
To boost its low-carbon electricity generation, Lesotho can look to successful regions around the globe. Countries like India and Japan have demonstrated the substantial potential of solar power, generating as much as 166 TWh and 104 TWh from solar, respectively. Moreover, wind energy, as seen in countries like Brazil with 113 TWh and Canada with 51 TWh, is another viable path. Nuclear energy also offers a stable and clean path forward, with countries like France and the United States generating 373 TWh and 784 TWh, respectively. Lessons can be learned from these nations about policy frameworks, technological advancements, and investment structures to accelerate the adoption of solar and nuclear energy in Lesotho.
History
Looking back at Lesotho's history of low-carbon electricity, the landscape has been dominated by hydroelectric power. In the early 2000s, there were small increments, with a notable increase in 2005. However, the pattern mostly stagnated, and in some years, like 2011 and 2019, there were notable declines. The recent year of 2022 also saw a decrease in hydroelectric output. Such stagnation, and indeed regression, in low-carbon electricity generation is worrying in the context of global energy demands and environmental concerns. By integrating more sustainable energy sources like solar and nuclear, Lesotho can drive a more resilient and green energy future that aligns with global progress towards more substantial and reliable power sources.
