Electricity in Burkina Faso in 2023
In the year 2023, electricity consumption in Burkina Faso predominantly relies on net imports and fossil fuel sources. Net electricity imports are more than half of the total consumption, contributing 1.58 TWh, while fossil fuel sources account for around 1.43 TWh. Together, these make up the vast majority of the country's electricity supply, with low-carbon energy contributing only a small chunk. The country's electricity consumption per capita is approximately 144 kWh, which is significantly below the global average of 3,781 kWh per person. This low level of electricity availability may hinder economic development and quality of life improvements, as adequate electricity supply is crucial for modern infrastructure, industrialization, and digital access.
Is Electricity Growing in Burkina Faso?
Recent trends indicate that electricity consumption in Burkina Faso is experiencing a concerning decline. The per capita consumption in 2023 of 144 kWh represents a slight reduction from the previous high of 147 kWh in 2021, showing a drop of roughly 3 kWh per person. This decrease is mirrored in the generation of low-carbon electricity, which has seen a reduction from 14 kWh per person in 2021 to 13 kWh in 2023. These declines highlight a worrying trend, indicative of either stagnant development in electricity infrastructure or reduced accessibility. Boosting this sector is essential to meet growing demands and foster a sustainable energy future.
Suggestions
To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Burkina Faso can learn valuable lessons from other regions that have successfully expanded their green energy capacity. Countries like China and India have made significant advancements in solar power, generating 834 TWh and 134 TWh, respectively. These examples demonstrate the viability and scalability of solar power, especially in sun-rich countries. Furthermore, nuclear energy, as showcased by the United States and France, offers a reliable, clean source of electricity, covering substantial portions of their energy output. Adoption of solar initiatives and exploration of nuclear energy can significantly improve Burkina Faso's electricity landscape, aligning it with global movements towards sustainable energy solutions.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Burkina Faso reveals a predominantly hydro-focused approach until recent years. In the late 1990s, there were modest increments in hydroelectric generation with consistent contributions through 1996 and 1999. However, subsequent years, particularly throughout the early 2000s and into the 2010s, saw stagnation in new hydroelectric capacity. A small breakthrough came in 2018 when solar and biofuels each contributed a minor increase of 0.1 TWh. Despite these developments, the overall growth in green energy has been limited, signaling a pressing need for strategic investments in more substantial sources like solar and nuclear to invigorate Burkina Faso's clean electricity generation efforts.