In 2023, electricity consumption in Cameroon is largely divided between low-carbon and fossil fuels, with low-carbon sources such as hydropower playing a crucial role. Hydropower alone contributes a significant 5.26 TWh, making up more than half of the nation's electricity generation. Adding a negligible contribution from biofuels, over two-thirds of Cameroon's electricity comes from low-carbon sources, emphasizing the country’s reliance on clean energy. Fossil fuels contribute about 3.01 TWh, with gas making up 1.96 TWh. However, overall electricity consumption stands at nearly 296 kWh per person, far below the global average of 3781 kWh per person. Such low levels may contribute to slower economic growth and limited access to modern conveniences, potentially hindering social and economic development.
Is Electricity Growing in Cameroon?
Over recent years, the growth of electricity consumption in Cameroon has been disappointing, as illustrated by a decline in per capita usage. While the 2015 record sat at 351 kWh per person, recent figures have dropped to 296 kWh per person, reflecting a downturn in energy growth and access. In terms of low-carbon generation, there has also been a decline from a previous high of 256 kWh per person in 2006 to today's 188 kWh per person. This is a concerning trend as expanding energy access, especially clean energy, is essential for meeting domestic needs and supporting development.
Suggestions
To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Cameroon can learn from regions successfully harnessing diverse clean energy sources. For solar energy, nations like India, generating 134 TWh, and Brazil with 75 TWh, have significantly scaled up their solar capabilities. Given Cameroon's abundant sunlight, similar solar developments could be pivotal. As for nuclear energy, countries like the United States (782 TWh) and France (379 TWh) demonstrate how nuclear can extensively contribute to low-carbon grids. Investing in nuclear infrastructure would provide Cameroon with a reliable and continuous clean energy supply, essential for sustainable growth and mitigating the adverse effects of fossil fuels.
History
Historically, Cameroon's journey with low-carbon energy, particularly hydropower, has seen gradual increments since the 1980s. While the early 1980s showed consistency with annual increases of 0.2 to 0.4 TWh, the late 1990s and early 21st century continued with moderate uplifts, up until setbacks like a 0.3 TWh drop in 2002. The 2010s displayed variability, but overall, represented a positive trend with 0.7 TWh added in 2017. Despite occasional setbacks, such as downturns in hydro due to various challenges, the broader narrative has been one of progression. As Cameroon looks to the future, learning from historical trends can ensure a steady rise in clean electricity, vital for development and environmental sustainability.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.