In Chad, electricity consumption is notably low compared to the global average. The country's electricity generation is largely dependent on fossil fuels, with close to none derived from low-carbon sources such as wind or solar power. As a result, Chad's per capita electricity consumption is far below the global average of 3606 watts per person. This dependency on fossil fuels not only contributes to climate change and air pollution but also limits the availability of clean energy resources for the population, which can hinder economic development, social welfare, and overall quality of life. The lack of reliable and sustainable electricity access can affect various sectors, such as education, healthcare, and industry, thereby impacting Chad’s progress toward modernization and poverty reduction.
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Chad can draw inspiration from countries that have successfully integrated wind and solar power into their energy mixes. For instance, Brazil has demonstrated progress with wind energy, generating nearly 97 TWh, while India managed to produce 125 TWh from solar power. These countries share similar developmental challenges and geographical advantages that Chad might leverage to its benefit. Investing in these sustainable technologies not only reduces dependence on fossil fuels but also contributes to global energy security and climate change mitigation. Furthermore, exploring nuclear energy might be a viable option for Chad to produce large amounts of low-carbon electricity consistently and efficiently, as evidenced by the success of countries like France, the United States, and South Korea.
Historically, Chad's journey toward low-carbon electricity generation has been stagnant. Over the past decade, data indicates there has been zero growth in biofuels and wind electricity production from 2012 to 2022. This prolonged lack of development in clean energy is concerning, particularly at a time when transitioning to low-carbon alternatives is crucial for sustainable energy security. There is an urgent need for Chad to reassess and strategize its energy policy to incorporate modern, efficient technologies such as wind, solar, and potentially nuclear power to meet its growing electricity demands and contribute positively to combating global climate challenges. With strategic investments and international collaborations, Chad can embark on a path toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.