As of 2023, Burundi's electricity consumption per person is remarkably low, with each individual consuming about 36 kWh annually. This is close to none compared to the global average of 3781 kWh per person. Low-carbon or clean energy sources such as hydro and biofuels constitute more than half of Burundi's electricity, with low-carbon generation accounting for 20 kWh per person. The persistent reliance on fossil fuels, albeit a small share in Burundi's case, presents environmental drawbacks such as air pollution and climate change, exacerbating challenges related to public health and sustainable agricultural practices. The limited electricity generation can impede economic development, restrict educational opportunities by limiting time for study after dark, and affect healthcare services, illustrating a significant barrier to achieving improved living standards.
Is Electricity Growing in Burundi?
Despite hopes for progress, electricity consumption in Burundi has been declining, as evidenced by the decrease from its previous peak of 40 kWh per person in 2019 to the latest figure of 36 kWh per person in 2023. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation also witnessed a drop, with the current figure of 20 kWh per person down from the record of 22 kWh in 2020. This decline in both overall and clean electricity generation is worrisome, as it suggests a stagnation that may hinder Burundi's ability to meet growing demand and support electrification, which is necessary for advancing infrastructure, technology, and economic growth.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, particularly solar and nuclear, Burundi can look to the success stories of other regions. The People's Republic of China, for instance, has excelled in both solar and wind energy, generating over 1000 TWh from each category, showing how strategic investment and commitment can lead to significant clean electricity growth. By following China's example and considering nuclear energy options like those adopted by the United States and France, Burundi can diversify its energy portfolio, eventually reducing dependence on fossil fuels and enhancing energy security. As Burundi seeks to build its low-carbon energy capacity, the focus should be on solar due to its abundant sunlight potential while exploring collaboration partners for potential nuclear infrastructure developments.
History
Throughout Burundi's history of low-carbon electricity generation, there have been periods marked by stagnation. Since the early 1990s, hydro represented the country’s opening into low-carbon sources, but it saw no significant growth through subsequent decades. In 2016, a small introduction of solar power was recorded, though it did not immediately lead to a noticeable upward trend in low-carbon electricity. Although biofuels made an appearance in 2011, similar to solar, it did not see remarkable development. The consistency in the stagnancy of Burundi's low-carbon generation is concerning, emphasizing the necessity for renewed focus and strategy to bolster clean electricity and enable a transition to a more sustainable and prosperous future.