Electricity in Equatorial Guinea in 2022

Equatorial Guinea's electricity consumption in 2022 was primarily reliant on fossil fuels. The nation's per capita electricity consumption was significantly lower than the global average of 432 watts per person, signaling potential issues related to lack of access to reliable energy, which can stifle economic growth and limit improvements in living standards. Low-carbon electricity sources, such as hydro, wind, and solar, made up close to none of the total electricity generation, indicating a heavy dependence on fossil fuels. This reliance on non-renewable sources exacerbates climate change and contributes to air pollution, both of which have health and environmental impacts.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Equatorial Guinea can look to examples set by countries successful in this area. For instance, Brazil has effectively utilized both wind and solar energy, generating substantial electricity from these sources. Similarly, China has made significant strides in wind and solar power generation, while also investing in nuclear energy. Equatorial Guinea can learn from these nations by developing comprehensive policies and infrastructure supporting clean energy projects. Building robust grid networks and incentivizing private investments in low-carbon technologies like wind, solar, and nuclear can greatly contribute to a greener and more sustainable energy landscape.

History

Historically, Equatorial Guinea's efforts in low-carbon electricity generation have been minimal. From 1991 to 2010, hydroelectric power produced no significant output. There was a minor increase starting in 2012, with small additions to hydroelectric generation over the next few years, peaking with an increase of 0.2 TWh in 2013. However, these efforts stagnated, with no additional increases from 2017 to 2022. Such negligible growth highlights a missed opportunity to diversify energy sources and underscores the importance of substantial investment in low-carbon technologies like nuclear, wind, and solar moving forward.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources