In 2023, the state of electricity consumption in Cameroon shows a prominent reliance on low-carbon sources, specifically hydropower, which accounts for more than half of the total electricity generation. With low-carbon sources contributing approximately 10.6 TWh, including 5.32 TWh from general low-carbon sources and 5.26 TWh significantly from hydropower, they dominate the energy mix compared to fossil sources, which contribute around 5 TWh. However, when these figures are broken down to individual consumption, Cameroon's electricity consumption equals roughly 296 kWh per person, which is drastically lower than the global average of 3736 kWh per person. These low levels of electricity generation and consumption can limit economic growth and the quality of life since access to reliable and sufficient electricity is critical for industrial activities, education, and even healthcare services, presenting a substantial barrier to modernization and development.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Cameroon?
The record of electricity consumption in Cameroon raises concerns about growth as the latest figures highlight a decline rather than an increase in per capita electricity usage. The current per capita consumption stands at 296 kWh, down from the previous high of 352 kWh in 2015. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation has dropped to 188 kWh per person, from a peak of 258 kWh per person in 2006, marking declines of 56 kWh and 71 kWh respectively. This decline in all types of electricity consumption underscores the need for strategic policy interventions and investments to reverse this downward trend, especially crucial given the importance of electricity in fostering economic development and improving living standards.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Cameroon can learn from regions that have successfully expanded their clean energy capacity, especially in solar and nuclear sectors. China, for instance, serves as an exemplary model in solar and wind energy expansion, generating a large proportion of their electricity from these sources. Similarly, the United States' substantial nuclear output, alongside France's dedicated nuclear energy production, exemplifies commitment to low-carbon electricity. By focusing on increasing solar energy, similar to India and Texas, and investing in nuclear infrastructure, Cameroon could significantly amplify its clean electricity capacity, reducing dependency on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change and pollution concerns. Building a robust infrastructure for solar and nuclear energy could be a pivotal step towards sustainable economic development in Cameroon.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Cameroon has seen various changes, particularly in hydropower since the 1980s. The early 1980s experienced modest increments with periods of growth seen in 1981, 1982, and 1985, as well as more recent increases in 2017, highlighting an inconsistent pattern. The early 2000s saw brief declines, with a notable drop in 2002, yet it rebounded shortly after in subsequent years. In 2006, biofuels contributed a noteworthy yet short-lived increase before declining in 2007. The lack of significant and consistent investment in a wider range of low-carbon technologies, beyond hydropower, suggests room for improvement. This varied historical performance underscores the importance of diversifying low-carbon sources to ensure a more stable and resilient electricity supply. By capitalizing on solar energy and advancing nuclear energy initiatives, Cameroon could diversify and strengthen its low-carbon electricity availability, ensuring sustainability and future growth.
