Electricity in Congo - Brazzaville in 2022

In 2022, the majority of electricity in Congo-Brazzaville was generated using fossil fuels, accounting for more than three-quarters of the total electricity consumption, with gas alone representing nearly three-quarters. On the other hand, low-carbon electricity sources contributed just over one-fifth to the country's electricity mix, with hydropower being the sole contributor to this category at approximately 23%. The dependence on fossil fuels poses significant environmental concerns, such as greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, underlining the importance of transitioning to more sustainable energy sources to ensure cleaner electricity generation.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Congo-Brazzaville can benefit from the strategies adopted by other countries with successful clean energy transitions. For instance, countries like Denmark and Uruguay have achieved considerable portions of their electricity from wind resources, generating 59% and 36% of their electricity from this source, respectively. By exploring and investing in wind energy, Congo-Brazzaville could help diversify its low-carbon portfolio beyond hydropower. Additionally, while nuclear energy currently does not constitute a part of Congo-Brazzaville's energy profile, countries such as France have demonstrated the potential of nuclear power to transform the electricity landscape, with nuclear energy supplying 67% of its electricity. Emulating such models and exploring investments in both wind and nuclear technologies could set a robust foundation for Congo-Brazzaville's sustainable future.

History

Historically, Congo-Brazzaville's development of hydropower, its only low-carbon energy source, has seen modest growth spread over several decades. In the early 1980s, 0.1 TWh increments were recorded, signifying slow but steady progress. This growth continued with a few setbacks in the early 1990s, where there were slight reductions in generation. After some fluctuations, more significant growth was observed in the 2010s, marked notably by a substantial increase of 0.4 TWh in 2011. The country has experienced ups and downs in its hydropower generation journey, but there are opportunities for further development. Looking ahead, building on these foundations while exploring additional clean energy sources could provide a comprehensive approach to expanding the nation's low-carbon electricity share.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources