In 2022, Chad’s electricity consumption reflected both significant challenges and opportunities. With an average of just 21 kWh per person, Chad's consumption is a small fraction of the global average of 3662 kWh per person, highlighting a pressing area for development. The bulk of this consumption stems from fossil energy sources, while low-carbon energy, including biofuels and wind, contributes negligibly to their electricity portfolio. This reliance on fossil sources not only fuels climate change and air pollution but also limits the growth and sustainability of Chad’s energy sector. Consequently, inadequate electricity generation can stifle economic growth, hinder educational advancements with limited access to light and technology, and impair the delivery of essential services like healthcare. Tackling these issues by increasing clean energy generation should be a priority for Chad.

Data sources used on this page include Ember. More about data sources →

Is Electricity Growing in Chad?

Despite some fluctuations, electricity generation in Chad has not shown significant growth. The latest available data from 2022 indicates that electricity consumption stands marginally lower at 21 kWh per person compared to the previous record of 24 kWh per person in 2021. Unfortunately, this represents a decrease, emphasizing the need for more robust systems to boost electricity generation sustainably. Critically, the production of low-carbon electricity has remained static since 2016, precisely at 1 kWh per person annually. The stagnation in clean energy generation highlights an urgent need to revamp energy strategies to prevent reliance on unsustainable practices and to support eventual sustainable growth.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Chad can draw lessons from successful regions. Countries like India and South Africa have effectively utilized solar energy, generating significant amounts of solar electricity—166 TWh and 17 TWh, respectively. Similarly, wind energy presents viable opportunities; nations like Brazil are able to produce 113 TWh using wind. Adopting efficient solar and wind farms could leverage Chad's ample sunlight and potential wind corridors. Stronger still, nuclear power remains a formidable option for a sustained clean energy boost. Globally, countries such as France and the United States have proven the effectiveness of nuclear energy, producing 373 TWh and 784 TWh, respectively. For Chad, investing in nuclear reactors could transform the landscape of their energy infrastructure, providing a stable and vast supply of sustainable electricity.

History

Historically, Chad’s journey in low-carbon electricity has been stagnant, marked by no growth over the last decade. From 2012 through 2022, Chad recorded no measurable increase in low-carbon electricity, specifically from biofuels and wind sources. Each consecutive year mirrored the last with zero added generation in wind or biofuels. This consistent lack of advancement is concerning, especially as climate change impacts intensify and fossil fuel prices continue to fluctuate. To alter this narrative, Chad must commit to robust investments in more reliable clean electricity sources, such as solar and nuclear, both promising to transform energy accessibility and sustainability for future generations.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade