In 2023, Burundi's electricity consumption is at a modest 36 kWh per person per year, which is a small fraction compared to the global average of 3649 kWh per person. A significant portion of this comes from low-carbon sources, with 20 kWh per person being generated from cleaner energy options. However, this still places the nation in a challenging position, as the majority of the electricity supply likely relies on non-renewable energy sources or is simply insufficient to meet even basic demands. This level of electricity consumption underscores a severe shortfall in energy provision, potentially hindering social and economic development. Such low levels can impede daily activities, affect education, hospital operations, and constrain business operations, ultimately delaying the country's growth and progress.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and Enerdata. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Burundi?
Recent trends show that electricity consumption in Burundi is slightly declining rather than growing. In 2019, the record was 40 kWh per person, but it has decreased by 4 kWh to the current 36 kWh per person. Even low-carbon electricity, which once reached a record of 22 kWh per person in 2020, has since decreased by 2 kWh. These declines are worrying as they suggest not only a stagnation but a reduction in electricity access, which is contrary to global expectations of energy growth, particularly in clean energy sectors. This stagnation can have long-term negative implications for Burundi's aspirations to advance economically and improve the quality of life for its people.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Burundi can draw on successful examples from other regions. For solar energy, regions like China and the United States have set solid precedents, with China generating over 1100 TWh and the U.S. producing around 355 TWh from solar sources. Wind energy is another avenue to explore, taking cues from countries like Germany and states like Texas, which generate 129 TWh and 127 TWh respectively. Similarly, embracing nuclear energy could significantly bolster Burundi's clean energy goals. Countries such as France and states like Illinois have demonstrated the potential of nuclear, with France generating 370 TWh and Illinois 99 TWh of nuclear electricity. By investing in these clean technologies, Burundi can potentially multiply its energy production, diminish reliance on fossil fuels, reduce pollution, and stimulate economic growth.
History
Burundi's history with low-carbon electricity generation, particularly from hydro sources, has seen stagnation over several years. Since 1991, there has been close to no growth in hydroelectric power, with no notable increases or decreases from year to year. The lack of dynamism in hydropower has extended into the biofuels sector, where little to no change has been recorded. The introduction of solar in 2016 did not result in any additional generation capacity, showing an urgent need for investment and innovation. This historical pattern of stagnation in low-carbon energy development highlights an area ripe for expansion and improvement. With the right policies and investments focusing on solar and nuclear enhancements, Burundi could significantly transform its electricity generation landscape into a more sustainable and prosperous one.
