Electricity in Chad in 2022
In Chad, electricity consumption remains remarkably low, with each person consuming just 21 kWh in 2022. This amount is close to none when compared to the global average, which stands at 3658 kWh per person. More than half of Chad's electricity generation relies on fossil fuels, contributing significantly to global challenges like climate change and air pollution. Clean energy sources make up a meager fraction, with just 1 kWh per person derived from low-carbon options like wind and biofuels. The country's limited electricity availability can curb economic development and affect quality of life, as energy plays a crucial role in health, education, and overall livelihoods.
Data sources used on this page include Ember. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Chad?
Chad's potential growth in electricity consumption appears stagnant, if not declining. In 2021, the average electricity consumption reached 24 kWh per person, slightly higher than in 2022. Unfortunately, the past few years demonstrate no notable advances in low-carbon energy use either, with the current generation of 1 kWh per person remaining unchanged since 2016. While global trends in electricity demand point towards growth due to electrification and AI advancements, Chad has yet to experience such expansion, which raises concerns about the country's ability to meet future energy needs sustainably.
Suggestions
To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Chad can draw inspiration from successful global examples. Countries like China exhibit stellar solar and wind energy production, generating over 1,170 TWh and 1,130 TWh, respectively. Solar power, in particular, offers vast potential given Chad's abundant sunlight. Furthermore, nuclear energy should be part of Chad's long-term strategy, as evidenced by the significant outputs in nations like the United States and France. Incorporating both solar and nuclear energy could facilitate a sustainable transition towards a greener future, minimizing reliance on fossil fuels and fostering environmental and economic resilience.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Chad has been uneventful over the past decade, with no meaningful changes in biofuels or wind energy generation since 2012. Each year from 2016 through 2022 has seen no advancements in these sectors, resulting in a resultant plateau. This stagnation underscores a missed opportunity to harness the potential of low-carbon technologies over the years. It is crucial for Chad to revisit its energy policies, prioritizing growth in solar and nuclear energy to break this stagnation and align itself with global efforts toward sustainable energy solutions.
