Electricity in Botswana in 2023
In 2023, electricity consumption in Botswana is predominantly fueled by fossil energy sources. Coal accounts for more than half of the electricity generation, constituting approximately 55%, while overall, fossil energy sources contribute to about 57% of the country's electricity. Additionally, Botswana supplements its electricity needs with imports, which make up about 43% of the total consumption. However, clean energy sources play an almost negligible role, with low-carbon electricity generation contributing close to none in comparison. Given the global push for reducing carbon emissions, there is significant room for improvement in increasing the share of low-carbon energy in Botswana's electricity mix.
Is Electricity Growing in Botswana?
Over the years, there has been a concerning decline in electricity consumption per capita in Botswana. The latest data from 2023 indicates a consumption level of 1818 kWh per person, which is a reduction of 194 kWh compared to the highest recorded level of 2013 kWh per person in 2015. This decline represents a worrying trend as it reflects stagnation or possible inefficiencies in meeting electricity demand. In terms of low-carbon electricity generation, there has been no growth since the record level of 4 kWh per person in 2018. This lack of progress in clean electricity generation, coupled with decreasing overall consumption, suggests that Botswana needs innovative strategies to enhance its electricity supply, especially from low-carbon sources.
Suggestions
Botswana can learn valuable lessons from other regions that have successfully increased their low-carbon electricity generation. Countries like France and Slovakia have achieved significant results by adopting nuclear energy, contributing around 68% and 62% respectively. Similarly, states like Iowa and South Dakota in the U.S. demonstrate impressive generation shares from wind energy, amounting to 63% and 59%. Botswana, with its sunny climate, can also look towards countries like Lebanon and Chile, where solar contributes 31% and 22%, respectively, to their electricity generation. By investing in solar and nuclear power as dominant low-carbon sources, Botswana could transform its electricity sector to not only reduce its carbon footprint but also ensure a more sustainable and stable energy supply.
History
Examining Botswana's history of low-carbon electricity reveals a static landscape over the past decade. Since 2012, there have been no evident changes or increases in solar electricity generation, with recorded levels remaining at zero throughout the years to 2023. This stagnation is particularly concerning considering the potential Botswana holds for solar energy exploitation. As global energy demands evolve, especially with the rise of electrification and AI technologies, the country must urgently prioritize the development of its solar capacities to ensure it does not fall behind in the transition towards cleaner, more sustainable electricity. New investments and strategic plans are crucial to drive the necessary growth in low-carbon electricity generation, ensuring environmental and economic resilience for the future.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.