In 2023, Burkina Faso's electricity consumption relies heavily on fossil fuels and electricity imports, with minimal contributions from low-carbon energy sources. Specifically, fossil energy contributes approximately 1.43 TWh and net electricity imports account for about 1.58 TWh, indicating a significant dependency on external electricity to meet national needs. Low-carbon electricity production is remarkably limited, with almost negligible contributions from local clean energy sources. Compared to the global average of 3736 kWh per person, Burkina Faso's electricity consumption stands at around 144 kWh per person, which is substantially lower. This low level of electricity generation can severely affect the country's socioeconomic development, resulting in limited industrial growth, inadequate access to modern amenities, and insufficient educational and healthcare services.

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

Is Electricity Growing in Burkina Faso?

The electricity consumption in Burkina Faso has seen a slight decline recently, reflecting stagnation rather than growth. The 2023 per capita consumption decreased from the previous record in 2021, with a change of -3 kWh per person. Similarly, low-carbon electricity production also experienced a reduction, with a decrease of 1 kWh per person compared to 2021 levels. These reductions signal a worrying trend, especially for low-carbon generation, which is crucial for sustainable growth and environmental health. To support economic development and improve living standards, reversing this trend and fostering growth in both total and clean electricity generation is essential.

Suggestions

Burkina Faso has great potential to enhance its low-carbon electricity generation by looking to successful regions for inspiration. Countries like China demonstrate the potential of solar and wind, having generated significant amounts of electricity from these sources. Similarly, nuclear energy is a cornerstone of clean electricity in countries like the United States and France. To harness its natural resources, Burkina Faso could invest in solar energy, taking advantage of abundant sunlight, and consider nuclear options, following the example of such nations to build a sustainable energy future. These efforts would help reduce dependence on fossil fuels, mitigate air pollution, and combat climate change.

History

Burkina Faso’s history of low-carbon electricity production reveals limited progress. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, incremental increases were seen in hydro power; however, growth was stagnant for many years, with little to no increase through the 2010s. A small but notable diversification occurred in 2018 with the addition of solar and biofuels, each contributing 0.1 TWh. Since then, however, there has been close to no progress in further developing these low-carbon sources. This history underscores the critical need for strategic investment and expansion in solar and potentially nuclear infrastructures to ensure future energy security and sustainability.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade