Why is electricity so low in Myanmar?

The electrification rate is especially low in rural villages, which are mainly not connected to the power grid. Wood and biomass are used as a primary source of energy in these areas. Myanmar has abundant energy resources, particularly hydropower and natural gas.

How can Myanmar improve its power system?

Rebuilding Myanmar’s power system will require establishing trust to develop the power sector. Developing solar PV can add incremental generating capacity in a relatively fast manner.

Does Myanmar have a power supply gap?

Myanmar’s power sector will likely continue to experience significant challenges. To sustain the current level of power supply would require adding 300-500 MW every year until 2030. Scenario analysis on the power supply–demand gap illustrates that available generating capacity is projected to not meet the growing demand.

How much energy does Myanmar use?

65% of the primary energy supply consists of biomass energy, used almost exclusively (97%) in the residential sector. Myanmar’s energy consumption per capita is one of the lowest in Southeast Asia due to the low electrification rate and a widespread poverty. An estimated 65% of the population is not connected to the national grid.

Will increasing imports help ease the electricity supply shortages in Myanmar?

While increasing imports could help to ease the electricity supply shortages in Myanmar, it remains challenging under the current circumstances. Improving power sector financial viability and recovering customer confidence are critical for private sector capital mobilization to enhance the quality of electricity services.

Why are foreign investors leaving the energy sector in Myanmar?

Due to political and economic instability and international sanctions in Myanmar, many foreign investors have left the energy sector. Macroeconomic slowdown and depreciation of the local currency has also put strong pressure on financial performance of the sector.