Electricity in Samoa in 2023

In 2023, Samoa's electricity consumption is predominantly powered by fossil fuels, which account for around 60% of the total electricity generation. In contrast, low-carbon energy sources collectively make up about 40% of electricity generation. Among the low-carbon options, hydropower is the most significant, contributing to roughly 20% of the electricity, followed by solar energy at almost 13%. Biofuels provide a smaller proportion, just under 7%. These figures highlight a substantial reliance on fossil fuels, underscoring the need for a transition towards more sustainable energy solutions to mitigate climate impacts and enhance energy security.

Suggestions

To increase Samoa's low-carbon electricity generation, expanding solar energy would be a promising strategy, given that it already contributes significantly to the electricity mix. Looking at global examples, Lebanon's success in deriving over 30% of its electricity from solar could offer valuable insights into how Samoa might scale up its solar infrastructure effectively. Similar island nations like Cape Verde, which generates 14% of its electricity from wind energy, show that it’s feasible for small islands to harness clean energy. Although nuclear energy isn't currently part of Samoa's energy landscape, the success of countries like France, where 68% of electricity comes from nuclear, illustrates the immense potential of nuclear energy as a powerful low-carbon option, which can guide long-term energy planning and diversification efforts.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in Samoa reveals a stable but modest progression. For much of the early 21st century, specifically from 2001 to 2013, hydropower maintained a constant presence without significant changes in generation capacity. Solar energy began to appear in 2015, although with minimal impact initially. The inclusion of biofuels in 2021 adds a small but noteworthy diversity to the energy mix. Despite the stable share of hydropower, it's evident that the development of other low-carbon sources such as solar has only recently started to gain traction. This steady but gradual shift emphasizes the necessity for strategic planning and investment to boost low-carbon energy sources, ensuring a sustainable and resilient energy future for Samoa.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources