Electricity in Congo - Kinshasa in 2022

In 2022, Congo-Kinshasa's electricity consumption primarily relied on low-carbon sources such as hydropower, generating about 11 TWh from this source alone. Net imports contributed an additional 1.41 TWh to the electricity supply, but the data does not specify the type of these imports. When combining hydropower with overall low-carbon sources, electricity generation stands at over 11 TWh, a small share in the grand global scheme. Unfortunately, fossil fuels still remain a pronounced gap that isn't quantified here, posing potential challenges for environmental sustainability. The total electricity consumption, when equated per person, is significantly lower than the global average of 3606 watts per person. This shortfall in electricity availability can have wide-ranging effects, potentially stalling economic development, reducing industrial growth, and limiting access to schooling and healthcare.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Congo-Kinshasa can take cues from countries that have successfully expanded their clean energy capacity. For instance, China has become a global leader in wind and solar power, generating a combined total of over 1,600 TWh from these sources. Nuclear power, as demonstrated by countries like the United States with 790 TWh and France with 350 TWh, also presents a viable path forward. By building on both wind and solar obtainable resources, as seen in India which generates substantial power from both sources, Congo-Kinshasa can maximize its natural resources for clean energy generation. The Republic's potential in hydropower has been visible, yet further incorporating and exploring nuclear technologies can diversify its electricity supply, reduce reliance on importing energy, and aid in reducing carbon emissions.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Congo-Kinshasa has largely revolved around fluctuations in hydropower production. Starting from the mid-1980s, there was a noticeable increase in hydropower capacity, including notable expansions in 1985, 1989, and 1992. However, the 1990s witnessed significant setbacks, particularly in 1997 with a reduction of over 1 TWh. In the two decades leading up to 2020, there was gradual though inconsistent growth in hydropower, underscored by the bursts of expansion in 2018 and 2020, while also experiencing declines such as in 2021. The historically inconsistent energy development underscores a need for a stable, sustainable approach moving forward, particularly embracing a mix of energy types that include nuclear alongside hydropower to guarantee a balanced low-carbon future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources