As of 2023, electricity consumption in Congo - Brazzaville heavily relies on fossil fuels, with more than three-quarters coming from this category, predominantly natural gas, making up over seven-tenths of the total. In contrast, clean and sustainable electricity sources constitute about a fifth of the total consumption, mainly driven by hydropower. This dependence on fossil fuels is concerning due to the associated negative environmental impacts, such as climate change and air pollution. Increasing the share of low-carbon energy sources is crucial for achieving a greener and more sustainable future.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Congo - Brazzaville?
The electricity consumption in Congo - Brazzaville is seeing some growth. The latest figure is 836 kWh per person, a modest increase from the previous record of 815 kWh per person in 2022. However, the progress in low-carbon electricity generation is disappointing, as it has fallen to 173 kWh per person from a previous record of 226 kWh per person in 2018. This decline in clean electricity generation highlights the urgent need for strategies to increase low-carbon electricity to meet future demand, especially considering the pressing challenges of climate change.
Suggestions
Congo - Brazzaville can enhance its low-carbon electricity generation by looking to successful countries around the globe that have embraced clean energy technologies. For instance, countries like Lebanon and Nevada have made impressive strides in solar energy generation, reaching around a third of their electricity from solar. Similarly, states such as Iowa and South Dakota derive more than half of their electricity from wind energy, showcasing the potential of wind power. Additionally, France's achievement of generating nearly 70% of its electricity from nuclear energy provides a strong case for investing in nuclear power. Adopting these successful models could significantly increase Congo - Brazzaville's clean electricity production and set it on a path toward a sustainable energy future.
History
Tracing back the history of low-carbon electricity in Congo - Brazzaville, hydropower has been the primary source of clean energy, with incremental changes in electricity generation. During the 1980s, hydroelectric power showed consistent growth with slight increases each year. The 1990s and 2000s saw both gains and declines, reflecting an inconsistent trajectory in hydropower development. Notably, within the last few decades, 2011 stands out with a significant increase of 0.4 TWh. However, declines in hydropower output in years such as 1999 and 2019 indicate volatility in this energy source, emphasizing the necessity for a diversified and more stable low-carbon energy strategy. This evolving scenario underscores the importance of strategically planning for a robust low-carbon electricity infrastructure to ensure energy security and sustainability.
