Electricity in Benin in 2023
As of 2023, electricity consumption in Benin remains relatively low, with each person consuming approximately 130 kWh annually. This figure is significantly below the global average of around 3,649 kWh per person. In Benin, electricity generation is dominated by fossil fuels, accounting for more than 98% of the country's total electricity output, while clean energy sources such as hydro and solar combine for only 2 kWh per person, highlighting a reliance on traditional energy sources. The limited electricity generation in Benin can hinder economic development and restrict access to modern amenities, affecting the quality of life for its population and slowing progress towards sustainable, environmentally-friendly growth.
Data sources used on this page include Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Benin?
Examining recent trends, Benin has seen a decrease in its electricity consumption compared to past data. While the peak consumption was 136 kWh/person in 2021, the most recent figures show a decline to 130 kWh/person, marking a decrease of close to 5 kWh/person in just two years. On a brighter note, low-carbon electricity generation has seen a slight improvement. Clean energy generation increased from 1 kWh/person in 2021 to 2 kWh/person in 2023. Although this growth is modest, it is a positive step toward reducing fossil fuel dependency. However, the overall decline in total electricity consumption is concerning and emphasizes the need for strategic measures to boost both demand and supply, especially from low-carbon sources.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Benin can draw inspiration from successful regions worldwide. Solar energy has seen remarkable growth in countries like India and Brazil, which generated 153 TWh and 76 TWh respectively. Similarly, impressive progress in wind energy can be observed in countries like Brazil (114 TWh) and India (102 TWh). Further, investing in nuclear energy, as demonstrated by leading countries like the United States (778 TWh) and France (371 TWh), can provide a consistent and scalable electricity supply. By adopting similar clean energy strategies and technologies, Benin could significantly increase its low-carbon electricity production, reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and aligning with global sustainability goals.
History
Historically, the development of low-carbon electricity in Benin has been stagnant. From 1997 through the early 2000s, there were no notable changes in hydroelectricity production. Likewise, biofuels appeared around 2006 but showed no growth. There was minimal activity in solar energy, with occasional small increases recorded in 2015, 2019, 2021, and 2023, albeit on a very small scale. This stagnation indicates a long-term need for policy development and investment to energize the sector. By overcoming this historical inertia, Benin can better utilize its natural resources for a sustainable future.
