Electricity in Côte d’Ivoire in 2022

As of 2022, electricity consumption in Côte d'Ivoire is characterized by more than half of its electricity generation relying on fossil fuels, particularly gas, with about 7.7 TWh. In comparison, clean electricity sources contribute almost a third, with hydropower accounting for the majority of this at 3.35 out of 3.45 TWh of low-carbon electricity. The total electricity consumption per individual falls significantly below the global average of 3606 watts per person, indicative of a rather limited electricity supply that can hamper economic development and improve living standards. With close to none of its electricity coming from non-hydropower low-carbon sources, the country is poised with opportunities to mitigate environmental repercussions of fossil fuels, such as air pollution and climate change, by diversifying its energy sources.

Suggestions

To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Côte d'Ivoire can learn from countries that have made significant strides in this area. For example, countries like Brazil and India have successfully harnessed wind energy, generating 97 TWh and 92 TWh, respectively. Côte d'Ivoire can emulate their strategies by investing in wind energy infrastructure, taking advantage of the natural wind patterns in coastal and inland regions. Additionally, solar energy holds potential given the country's geographic location with abundant sunlight; learning from India and Brazil, which generate 125 TWh and 61 TWh from solar energy, respectively, can guide Côte d'Ivoire in adopting effective solar technologies. Furthermore, Côte d'Ivoire could consider nuclear energy, drawing inspiration from countries like the United States and France, which produce substantial electricity from nuclear power, to ensure a stable supply of low-carbon electricity that supports its population and industry growth sustainably.

History

Côte d'Ivoire's history of low-carbon electricity generation, primarily through hydropower, has had its fluctuations over the decades. In the early 1980s, hydropower generation saw a peak with an additional 0.9 TWh in 1985, despite some setbacks in 1983 and 1984. Moving into the 1990s, the trend continued with both increases and declines, notably adding 0.6 TWh in 1995 and 0.4 TWh in 1999. The early 21st century showed some stability with minor changes each year but exhibited notable increases again in the late 2010s, particularly a steady rise in 2018 and 2019. However, 2021 experienced a significant decline of 0.7 TWh before rebounding with a similar increase in 2022. These fluctuations underscore the importance of diversifying into other clean electricity forms to ensure a consistent and reliable energy supply.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources