In 2023, Cameroon’s electricity consumption is characterized by a notable reliance on low-carbon sources, with hydropower dominating at 5.26 TWh, almost matching the total low-carbon generation of 5.32 TWh. In contrast, fossil energy sources contribute 3.01 TWh, with a significant yet smaller share from gas at 1.96 TWh. Despite these clean energy efforts, Cameroon’s average electricity consumption per person is only 296 kWh, woefully low compared to the global average of 3,662 kWh/person. This stark difference reflects potential challenges in economic development, industrial growth, and overall quality of life, as electricity is a fundamental driver for progress and modern infrastructure. Countries with low electricity generation might face difficulties in sustaining economic growth, improving healthcare, and enhancing education systems due to lack of adequate energy resources.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Cameroon?
Examining the trend of electricity consumption in Cameroon reveals a concerning decrease in recent years. From a high of 352 kWh/person recorded in 2015, the per-person consumption has dipped to 296 kWh in 2023, marking a decline of 56 kWh. This reduction is mirrored in low-carbon electricity generation as well, which peaked at 258 kWh/person in 2006 but has since reduced to 188 kWh/person, a decline of 71 kWh/person. These downward trends signal a worrying state where Cameroon may struggle to meet increasing future demand or support critical sectors, necessitating urgent measures to reverse this decline and stimulate growth—particularly in sustainable, low-carbon electricity sources.
Suggestions
To bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, Cameroon can draw inspiration from successful regions renowned for their solar and nuclear capabilities. For instance, the People’s Republic of China has achieved remarkable generation levels from both solar (1,170 TWh) and wind (1,130 TWh), while the United States has incorporated a diverse mix, including significant contributions from nuclear (784 TWh), wind (462 TWh), and solar (381 TWh). Among African nations, South Africa provides an insightful case, with both solar (17 TWh) and wind (11 TWh) contributions illustrating potential pathways for Cameroon. Prioritizing solar for its adaptability in sunny climates and exploring nuclear energy for its reliable, high-output nature could significantly enhance Cameroon’s electricity generation landscape, fostering a cleaner and more robust energy future.
History
Tracing the historical trajectory of low-carbon electricity in Cameroon reveals varied developments, predominantly centered around hydropower. In the early 1980s, hydropower witnessed consistent but modest increments, with notable years like 1981 and 1985 each adding around 0.2 TWh. The 2000s saw fluctuations, highlighted by a 0.4 TWh increase in 2004 and a 0.3 TWh rise in 2003, alongside setbacks such as the 0.3 TWh decline in 2002. The most significant recent increase was in 2017, with a 0.7 TWh boost, underscoring potential yet undersized advances in clean electricity. While these ups and downs highlight a reliance on hydro, they also signal an urgent need for diversification into other low-carbon sources like solar and nuclear to secure a more stable and sustainable energy future for Cameroon.
