Burkina Faso's electricity consumption in 2023 reveals a reliance on both imported and fossil fuel-based energy. Net imports account for about 1.6 TWh, while fossil sources contribute approximately 1.4 TWh. On the other hand, clean energy makes up a minor portion, with the latest figures showing low-carbon electricity generation at a mere 13 kWh per person. Compared to the global average consumption of 3649 kWh per person, Burkina Faso's latest total of 144 kWh per person is drastically lower. This undersupply results in limited access to reliable electricity, potentially hindering economic growth and affecting the quality of life with ongoing challenges like inadequate health care facilities, constrained industrial activities, and limited educational resources.

Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and Enerdata. More about data sources →

Is Electricity Growing in Burkina Faso?

Assessing the trend of electricity consumption in Burkina Faso, there is a slight decline from its historic high in 2021. The most recent figures indicate a decrease to 144 kWh per person from the 147 kWh per person recorded in 2021. Likewise, low-carbon energy generation has seen a minor decrease from its peak of 14 kWh per person to 13 kWh per person. This stagnation in electricity consumption and generation foreshadows continued challenges in meeting energy demands and highlights the urgent need for strategic initiatives to foster growth, particularly in the low-carbon sector, to avoid further slipping backward.

Suggestions

Burkina Faso stands to benefit significantly by adopting successful strategies from regions excelling in clean energy generation, particularly focusing on solar and nuclear energy. With China's impressive solar capacity of 1117 TWh and India's 157 TWh, Burkina Faso could harness its ample sunlight to develop a robust solar infrastructure. Moreover, as demonstrated by states like Illinois and New York with significant nuclear outputs, investing in nuclear energy could provide a stable and sustained clean energy supply. By drawing on these examples, Burkina Faso can enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, reduce reliance on imports and fossil fuels, and move towards a cleaner, more resilient energy future.

History

The journey of low-carbon electricity in Burkina Faso has predominantly been marked by hydro contributions, albeit modest. From the mid-1990s to early 2000s, sporadic increments were recorded, but sustained growth was elusive. The introduction of solar in 2019 at 0.1 TWh added a new dimension to the mix, indicating a shift towards diversifying clean energy sources. The latest developments include a notable growth in biofuels in 2021; however, hydroelectricity remains stagnant. To accelerate progress, continuous and strategic investments in solar and nuclear power could significantly alter the energy landscape, ensuring more reliable and abundant clean electricity for the country.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade