As of 2023, electricity consumption in Comoros is marked by notably low levels, amounting to roughly 165 kWh per person per year. This is a stark contrast to the global average, which stands at around 3794 kWh per person annually. Nearly all of Comoros' electricity comes from fossil fuels, with low-carbon or clean energy, such as solar or nuclear, contributing close to none. This reliance on fossil fuels not only exacerbates issues related to climate change and air pollution but also highlights the vulnerability of Comoros to global oil price fluctuations. Without significant development of low-carbon energy sources, the country faces challenges in achieving sustainable energy security and supporting economic growth.

Is Electricity Growing in Comoros?

Unfortunately, there hasn't been much growth in electricity consumption in Comoros recently. In 2023, the electricity consumption slightly dipped to 165 kWh per person, compared to a previous record of 168 kWh per person in 2022. This decline is concerning and suggests that Comoros is struggling to expand its electricity generation capacity, particularly in terms of low-carbon electricity, which has seen no progress whatsoever since the year 2000. The stagnation in clean electricity generation is worrisome, especially given the pressing need for environmentally friendly energy solutions to meet future demands and electrification goals.

Suggestions

For Comoros to enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, it can take inspiration from numerous successful regions globally. Solar power has seen tremendous growth in countries like China and India, where innovation and investment have driven scalable infrastructure projects. Similarly, nuclear energy remains a backbone in low-carbon electricity supplies, as seen in places like France and the United States, where nuclear generation forms a substantial part of the energy mix. If Comoros aspires to transition to clean energy, focusing on solar energy, due to its sunny climate, alongside exploring the potential for nuclear power projects, should be prioritized. By leveraging the lessons from these regions, Comoros can set a pathway to a sustainable, diversified, and secure energy future.

History

Historically, Comoros has remained tethered to fossil fuels, showing little to no change in low-carbon electricity generation. Over the decades, there hasn't been any significant development or investment in sectors like solar or nuclear energy. This lack of initiative has left Comoros reliant on fossil fuel imports and exposed to external economic impacts, without the benefits that sustainable, clean energy can provide. As history has shown, diversifying the electricity generation mix by investing in green technologies is not only crucial for stable energy supply but also essential for combating climate change and fostering economic development. Moving forward, Comoros must reverse this trend by adopting a low-carbon strategy focusing on expansion in solar and nuclear capacities.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade