Electricity in Burkina Faso in 2022

In Burkina Faso during 2022, the electricity consumption was largely dependent on imports, with net imports accounting for 1.55 TWh of its electricity needs. The country's domestic electricity generation, composed mainly of low-carbon sources, showed limited activity in both hydro and solar power, leading to an overall low electricity consumption per person compared to the global average of 3,606 watts per person. Such low electricity generation levels can have several impacts, including constraints on economic development, limited access to modern services, and a reduced ability to sustain growth in industries and infrastructure. Moreover, the heavy reliance on fossil fuels for the remaining domestic generation contributes to climate change and air pollution, emphasizing the urgent need for a more sustainable energy mix.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Burkina Faso could draw inspiration from countries that have effectively utilized solar and wind power. Notably, China and India have made significant strides in solar energy, with China generating 653 TWh and India 125 TWh from solar. These countries have paired governmental support with technological advancements to achieve vast solar capacity. On the wind energy front, countries like Germany (145 TWh) and Brazil (97 TWh) illustrate that even nations without a fossil-heavy past have effectively developed wind power infrastructures. Burkina Faso could replicate these strategies by investing in solar and wind power technologies, partnering with international agencies for technology transfer, and creating policy frameworks that incentivize green energy investments.

History

Historically, in Burkina Faso, there have been modest developments in low-carbon electricity, with hydro generation seeing minor increases of 0.1 TWh starting as early as 1996 and recurring in 1999 and 2016. Solar power became part of the energy portfolio in 2010, but substantial increases in solar generation were only seen beginning in 2018 with a change of 0.1 TWh. These efforts reflect a slow but growing interest in expanding green energy sources in the country. With continued economic and political commitment, Burkina Faso can emulate examples from other nations and accelerate its shift toward sustainable and clean electricity by enhancing solar and wind capabilities.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources