Cameroon's current state of electricity consumption indicates that more than half of its electricity generation is derived from low-carbon sources, with hydropower contributing nearly all of this category. Specifically, Cameroon generated 5.32 TWh from low-carbon sources, with hydropower making up 5.26 TWh of this total. Fossil energy sources, responsible for climate change and air pollution, account for a smaller but still significant part of the country's electricity mix, generating 3.01 TWh, with gas contributing 1.96 TWh. In comparison to the global average of 3794 kWh per person, Cameroon's electricity consumption of 296 kWh per person is quite low. Such low levels of electricity generation can ultimately hamper economic development, reduce the quality of life, and limit access to modern conveniences and technologies.

Is Electricity Growing in Cameroon?

The analysis of historical data suggests that electricity consumption in Cameroon is not currently on an upward trend. In fact, the latest figure of 296 kWh per person represents a decline from the previous electricity consumption record of 352 kWh per person in 2015, marking a decrease of 56 kWh per person. This decline is also evident in low-carbon electricity generation, which now stands at 188 kWh per person compared to 258 kWh per person in 2006, a decrease of 71 kWh per person. The declining figures for both overall and low-carbon electricity underscore a concerning pattern, given the growing need for increased electricity generation to support economic growth and development via cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Cameroon could benefit from looking at the energy strategies of successful regions, particularly in solar and nuclear generation. For solar energy, the People's Republic of China and India have demonstrated remarkable achievements, generating 1266 TWh and 192 TWh, respectively. These countries have made significant advancements in harnessing solar energy, showcasing the potential of a robust solar infrastructure. When it comes to nuclear energy, France and Japan exemplify how nuclear power can significantly contribute to clean electricity, producing 379 TWh and 92 TWh, respectively. By investing in both solar and nuclear technologies, Cameroon can diversify its low-carbon portfolio, enhance energy security, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, aligning with global trends toward sustainable energy solutions.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in Cameroon has seen modest increments primarily through hydropower since the early 1980s. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, hydropower generation increased gradually with occasional rises of 0.2 TWh to 0.4 TWh. A notable decline of 0.3 TWh took place in 2002 but was quickly offset with a corresponding increase in 2003 and an additional 0.4 TWh in 2004. Biofuels saw a brief spike in 2006 but as quickly declined in 2007. In recent years, a significant increase occurred in 2017 with a 0.7 TWh addition to hydropower. While these modest advancements in hydropower demonstrate the potential for growth, Cameroon has yet another opportunity to explore alternative low-carbon sources, notably solar and nuclear, which promise more substantial and consistent contributions to its electricity generation. By expanding to these technologies, Cameroon's future energy landscape could be markedly transformed.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade