Electricity in Cameroon in 2022

As of 2022, Cameroon generates a total of approximately 8.12 TWh of electricity annually, with more than half of this amount coming from low-carbon sources. Hydropower is the dominant source, contributing roughly 5 TWh, while biofuels provide a minor share. In contrast, fossil-based sources such as gas contribute about 3.06 TWh, illustrating a reliance on non-sustainable energy production that can lead to climate change and air pollution. Compared to the global electricity consumption average of 3638 watts per person, Cameroon's electricity generation per capita falls short of even reaching a global benchmark, which suggests that the country might face challenges such as slower economic growth and limited access to electricity, especially in rural areas where grid infrastructure may be sparse.

Suggestions

To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Cameroon could draw inspiration from successful nations. Brazil, a country with some similarities to Cameroon regarding hydropower reliance and economic development level, has made impressive strides in wind energy, generating 102 TWh. This suggests a potential for Cameroon to explore its wind resources. Additionally, embracing solar power like India, which generates 128 TWh, could be highly beneficial. Investment in solar and wind infrastructures, along with policies to attract private investment and technological partnerships, could pave the way for significant portfolio diversification in the electricity sector, ultimately bolstering energy security and reducing carbon emissions. Moreover, considering the example of numerous developed and developing nations, Cameroon should also evaluate the feasibility and benefits of introducing nuclear power as a stable and clean energy source in its energy mix.

History

Cameroon's history of low-carbon electricity expansion has been characterized by a series of developments in hydropower, with modest growth observed since the 1980s. Initial years like 1981 and 1982 saw incremental increases of 0.4 TWh and 0.2 TWh, respectively. The late 1990s also experienced small growth spurts, with an increase of 0.2 TWh in 1997 and 1999. There was a setback in 2002 with a decrease of 0.3 TWh, but subsequent years such as 2003 and 2004 saw slight recoveries. In the late 2010s, notably 2017 and 2019, more significant increases of 0.7 TWh and 0.4 TWh were recorded, demonstrating a renewed emphasis on augmenting clean energy production. Despite occasional declines such as in 2021, these fluctuating trends highlight the need for consistent growth in the sustainable electricity sector. Continuing this trajectory with enhanced support for hydropower while expanding into other low-carbon avenues like wind and solar would position Cameroon more strategically toward a greener electricity future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources