In 2022, electricity consumption in Réunion was predominantly reliant on fossil fuels, which accounted for more than half of the energy mix at roughly 66%. The largest contributor to fossil energy was coal, which made up nearly 28% of the total electricity generation. On the brighter side, low-carbon electricity sources contributed around 34% to the electricity mix. Among the clean energy sources, hydropower played a leading role, contributing almost 19%, while solar and biofuels added about 8% and 7%, respectively. This balanced mix indicates Réunion has room for growth in its low-carbon energy sector to further reduce reliance on fossil fuels, which are a major contributor to climate change and air pollution.

Is Electricity Growing in Réunion?

Regarding growth, electricity consumption in Réunion has encountered a setback compared to its recent peak. In 2022, electricity consumption was recorded at 3867 kWh per person, showing a decrease of 533 kWh from the previous high in 2020. This decline might indicate a slowdown that could be concerning as it suggests a potential stagnation in efforts to meet the growing electricity needs. Nevertheless, there is a silver lining considering the generation of low-carbon electricity: it has seen a positive change with 1320 kWh per person recorded in 2022, up by 57 kWh since its earlier peak in 2013. This progress in clean energy, albeit modest, is a step in the right direction towards achieving a sustainable energy future.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Réunion could draw inspiration from regions that excel in clean energy production, particularly by expanding solar and introducing nuclear energy. For example, Nevada has achieved an impressive 34% electricity generation from solar, while countries like France demonstrate how nuclear power can dominate an energy mix with a share as high as 67%. These regions provide a blueprint for boosting Réunion’s low-carbon electricity, further reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and addressing environmental challenges. By investing in technologically advanced, high-yield energy sources like solar and nuclear, Réunion can ensure a steady rise in its sustainable electricity generation to meet future demands.

History

Looking back at the history of low-carbon electricity in Réunion, the early 2000s saw fluctuating contributions from hydro, with minor increases and decreases of around 0.1 TWh up until the 2010s. In 2010, solar energy began its contribution with a steady increase of 0.1 TWh which continued into 2011. The mid-2010s marked an era of steady growth for hydropower, with occasional dips, but a noticeable drop occurred in 2019. However, by 2022, hydro made significant gains with an increase of 0.3 TWh, underscoring the resilience of existing low-carbon resources. While these shifts portray ongoing adaptations, Réunion's transition to a predominantly clean electricity future hinges on consistent advancements in both existing and new energy technologies.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade