Electricity in Botswana in 2023
In 2023, Botswana's electricity consumption predominantly relies on fossil energy sources, with more than half of the electricity being generated from coal, totaling around 55%. An additional share of fossil electricity comes from net imports, which make up almost 43% of the total electricity supply. This reliance on fossil fuels is significant, leaving close to none generated from low-carbon or clean energy sources. These statistics illustrate a pressing need for Botswana to transition towards a more sustainable electricity mix by integrating more low-carbon energy sources such as solar and nuclear to counteract the environmental impacts of fossil fuels.
Is Electricity Growing in Botswana?
Assessing the trend of electricity consumption in Botswana, it is evident that there has been a decline. The latest electricity consumption stands at about 1818 kWh per person, which marks a decrease of 194 kWh per person from the previous peak in 2015. This reduction indicates that Botswana's electricity growth is not keeping pace, which is concerning given the increasing global need for clean energy solutions. Furthermore, the generation of low-carbon electricity in the country remains stagnant at 4 kWh per person, unchanged since the record high reached in 2018. This persistent stagnation calls for proactive measures to invigorate the growth of low-carbon electricity, which is crucial for the country’s sustainable development and energy security.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Botswana can take valuable lessons from regions that have successfully integrated solar, wind, and nuclear energy into their electricity grids. Countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear power accounts for more than 60% of electricity generation, demonstrate the potential of nuclear energy in reducing carbon emissions. Similarly, the state of Iowa in the United States, generating approximately 62% of its electricity from wind, showcases the efficacy of wind power. Lebanon, with a notable share of 31% from solar power, provides a model for harnessing abundant solar resources. By investing in both solar and nuclear infrastructure, Botswana has the opportunity to diversify its energy portfolio, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and cater to future electricity demands sustainably.
History
Examining the historical development of low-carbon electricity in Botswana reveals a period of stagnation. From 2012 through 2023, solar electricity generation saw no increments, consistently remaining at zero TWh annually. This lack of progress over the decade points to a missed opportunity to capitalize on abundant solar resources—an asset which can significantly contribute to Botswana's clean energy transition. The absence of any substantial low-carbon growth reflects a historical oversight that necessitates immediate rectification through policies aimed at accelerating the development of solar and nuclear energy projects, thereby driving the country towards a cleaner energy future.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.