Electricity in Cameroon in 2022

In 2022, Cameroon generated a total of about 8 TWh of electricity. More than half of this electricity, roughly 5 TWh, was sourced from low-carbon energy, specifically hydropower. Meanwhile, fossil fuels, predominantly gas, contributed approximately 3 TWh to the nation's electricity supply. When we compare Cameroon’s electricity consumption per person with the global average, which stands at 3,638 watts per person, we observe a significant disparity. Low levels of electricity generation can hinder economic development, limit access to modern amenities, and pose challenges for educational and healthcare improvements due to inadequate power availability.

Suggestions

To boost its low-carbon electricity generation, Cameroon could consider investing in technologies that have been successful in other countries. For example, Brazil's achievements in wind energy, with over 100 TWh generated, along with India’s 128 TWh from solar energy, demonstrate the viability of expanding these green energy sources even in non-industrialized settings. By leveraging these technologies, Cameroon can diversify its energy mix. Moreover, emulating the development paths of countries like France and Canada with nuclear energy could provide an efficient and reliable source of electricity, fostering a sustainable future and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

History

Cameroon's history of low-carbon electricity generation has been primarily focused on hydropower. In the early 1980s, the country steadily increased its capacity, with modest gains each year. However, fluctuations were observed in the early 2000s, as seen in 2002 and 2005 when there were decreases in hydropower production. The year 2006 marked a temporary shift towards biofuels, but this saw an immediate decline the following year. Despite these fluctuations, the hydropower sector rebounded by 2017, which saw a significant increase of 0.7 TWh. The adjustments throughout the decades suggest a persistent effort to enhance hydropower capacity, though a more diversified approach could further stabilize and increase Cameroon's low-carbon electricity output.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources