In 2023, Burkina Faso's electricity consumption paints a picture of an urgent need for development, with more than half of its electricity being supplied by net imports. Close to none of the country's electricity is generated from low-carbon sources, with only a small portion coming from biofuels and solar power. The reliance on fossil fuels, accounting for almost a third of the overall consumption at 1.43 TWh, contrasts sharply with global initiatives to reduce carbon emissions. The country’s electricity consumption per person is drastically behind the global average, sitting at 144 kWh per person compared to the global average of 3771 kWh per person. This disparity might exacerbate socio-economic challenges, as limited electricity access can hinder education, healthcare, and economic productivity, adding to the urgency for expanding local low-carbon electricity generation.

Is Electricity Growing in Burkina Faso?

The recent trends in Burkina Faso's electricity consumption are concerning. In 2023, the overall consumption per person slightly decreased from its peak in 2021, dropping by 3 kWh per person. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation per person fell marginally by 1 kWh since 2021. This stagnation and decline in both overall and low-carbon electricity generation highlight challenges in increasing energy access and transitioning toward sustainable energy sources. To meet future energy demands and reduce dependency on imports, accelerated efforts in boosting electricity generation—particularly from low-carbon sources—are crucial, not just for economic growth but also for enhancing the quality of life of its people.

Suggestions

To significantly enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Burkina Faso can draw inspiration from regions excelling in clean energy, specifically solar and nuclear power. Observing the successes in solar power generation in countries like India and Australia, which have achieved significant solar outputs, serves as a guide for maximizing solar potential. Additionally, while Burkina Faso currently has no nuclear generation, the inclusion of nuclear energy, as seen in France and South Korea, could provide a stable and continuous clean power supply. Implementing strategies to leverage the sunlight-rich environment for solar energy, alongside considering nuclear energy development, could set Burkina Faso on a transformative path toward sustainable electricity generation, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and eliminating the notable impact of climate change and air pollution.

History

Historically, Burkina Faso’s foray into low-carbon electricity has seen minimal advancement, particularly in hydroelectric power generation. Over several years since 1996, there have been negligible increments in hydro power output, with no noteworthy increases in the last decade. The inclusion of solar in 2018 and biofuels in the same year were steps towards diversifying the energy mix, yet these changes were minimal. While the consistency in using hydro power represents a stable aspect of the country's energy portfolio, the lack of significant growth stresses the need for a broader and more aggressive approach to incorporate advanced technologies and stronger policy frameworks encouraging solar and nuclear electricity investments for a resilient and sustainable future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade