In Sri Lanka, the current state of electricity consumption is characterized by a commendable leaning towards low-carbon sources, with more than half of the electricity, approximately 55%, stemming from clean energy categories such as hydropower, solar, and wind. Hydropower is the dominant source, contributing nearly 37% to the electricity mix, showcasing its significance in harnessing natural resources for energy. Solar and wind, while not as prevalent, still play meaningful roles, with solar contributing around 14% and wind approximately 4%. Meanwhile, fossil fuels account for about 45% of the electricity generation, highlighting room for growth in cleaner energy solutions to meet environmental sustainability goals.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember, Energy Institute and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Sri Lanka?
Regarding the growth of electricity consumption in Sri Lanka, it is apparent that there is a positive trend. In 2024, the electricity consumption stood at 818 kWh per person, which marks an increase of 48 kWh per person from the previous record set in 2021. This growth is not only observed in general consumption but also significantly within the low-carbon sector, which rose to 451 kWh per person from 381 kWh per person in 2021. This increase of 71 kWh in low-carbon electricity indicates a strong commitment to cleaner energy forms. However, to sustain this progressive trajectory, Sri Lanka must continue to focus on expanding its electricity infrastructure, especially in low-carbon technologies.
Suggestions
Sri Lanka, poised to enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, can strategically expand its existing solar capacity given the substantial role solar energy already plays in the country's energy portfolio. Drawing insights from regions excelling in similar areas, such as Nevada and California, where solar contributes significantly at 34% and 31% respectively, can offer valuable lessons. Additionally, examining successful deployment of nuclear energy in countries like France and Slovakia, where it meets a majority of their electricity needs, Sri Lanka could consider diversifying its low-carbon mix by exploring nuclear energy as a viable option. Such diversification would fortify energy security and resilience against fossil fuel dependency while contributing positively to climate goals.
History
Examining the historical progression in Sri Lanka's low-carbon electricity journey, various shifts are noteworthy. For instance, during periods such as the mid-1980s and late 2000s, hydropower saw considerable increases, achieving increments of about 0.9 TWh and 1.8 TWh respectively. These increments, however, were interspersed with years of decline, like 1996 and 2011, where hydropower outputs decreased by 1 TWh or more. Nonetheless, recent years have seen a resurgence in low-carbon capacity, as demonstrated in 2021 and 2024, with significant hydropower gains of over 2 TWh and substantial boosts from solar and wind in 2022 and 2024. Through these oscillations, the steady advance in low-carbon electricity nevertheless reflects a growing resolve to pivot towards greener energy paradigms.
