In Cape Verde, the current state of electricity generation shows a significant reliance on fossil fuels, though a promising portion of the mix is also attributed to low-carbon sources. As of the year 2022, about 72% of the electricity produced in Cape Verde comes from fossil fuels. However, there is a substantial commitment to low-carbon energy, with 28% of electricity generated from clean sources. Notably, this 28% is evenly split between wind and solar power, each contributing 14%. Cape Verde’s pursuit of clean energy solutions represents an important step towards reducing reliance on fossil fuels, which are known to contribute to climate change and air pollution.
Is Electricity Growing in Cape Verde?
Electricity use in Cape Verde is on the rise, signaling encouraging progress. The most recent consumption data from 2022 indicates that it reached 962 kWh per person, which is an increase from the previous record set in 2016 at 878 kWh per person. This represents a growth of 84 kWh per person, showcasing an upward trend in overall electricity consumption. Even more promising is the growth in low-carbon electricity generation, with the latest figures showing 269 kWh per person. This marks a noteworthy increase of 94 kWh per person from the previous peak recorded in 2013. These numbers underscore Cape Verde's ongoing efforts to boost both overall and clean electricity use.
Suggestions
To further increase low-carbon electricity generation, Cape Verde can expand its existing low-carbon infrastructure by harnessing more solar and wind power. Taking cues from successful regions worldwide, Cape Verde could benefit greatly by diversifying its energy sources, potentially integrating nuclear energy into its clean energy mix. For instance, Denmark and Iowa, countries heavily reliant on wind power, generate over half of their electricity from this source, which resonates with Cape Verde's potential to expand its wind capacity. Additionally, countries like Lebanon have achieved considerable solar electricity integration at 31%, illuminating the significant prospects for solar expansion. A combined effort to enhance solar, wind, and perhaps consider future nuclear investments could accelerate Cape Verde's journey towards a cleaner, more sustainable electricity landscape.
History
Looking back at Cape Verde’s low-carbon electricity history, the journey began with a relatively stagnant decade from 2000 to 2011, where both wind and solar power contributions were practically dormant. However, a change emerged in 2022 when solar power witnessed an increase of 0.1 TWh. While this increase is modest, it marks the beginning of a transformational era characterized by the introduction and gradual expansion of clean energy sources. This trajectory indicates Cape Verde’s ongoing commitment to scaling up its low-carbon electricity capacity, setting the stage for future growth in sustainable energy generation.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.