As of 2023, Eritrea's electricity consumption is remarkably low, with each person using approximately 127 kWh per year. This is significantly below the global average of 3,649 kWh per person, highlighting a major gap in electricity accessibility. Among the types of electricity generation, clean energy, such as solar, accounts for a small portion of Eritrea's total output, while fossil fuels continue to dominate, leading to environmental challenges like climate change and pollution. The limited supply of electricity has considerable implications for development, health, and quality of life as many communities may lack consistent access to power for essential services such as healthcare, education, and business operations, restricting economic growth and improving living standards.

Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →

Is Electricity Growing in Eritrea?

The trajectory of electricity consumption in Eritrea appears to be heading in the wrong direction. The latest data from 2023 indicates a total consumption of 127 kWh per person, a decline from the previous high of 155 kWh per person in 2018. Similarly, low-carbon electricity specifically saw a small decrease from a record of 15 kWh per person in 2021 to 14 kWh in 2023. This stagnation, particularly in adopting more sustainable sources, is concerning. If Eritrea aims to improve its energy accessibility and environmental impact, there needs to be renewed focus on increasing electricity generation, particularly from clean sources.

Suggestions

To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Eritrea can prioritize expanding its solar energy capacity, a sector that is already established but needs substantial growth to meet demand. By following the example of successful regions using different forms of clean energy, Eritrea can craft an effective strategy for its energy future. For instance, India has achieved considerable solar electricity generation of 157 TWh and can serve as a model for solar expansion. Meanwhile, the high nuclear output from countries like France and states such as Illinois underscores the potential benefits of nuclear power as a reliable low-carbon source. By investing in these areas, Eritrea could significantly enhance its electricity provision and sustainability.

History

Historically, Eritrea's low-carbon electricity generation has been minimal, with no recorded output from solar or wind for many years since 1997, except for a modest increment in solar energy, which registered a slight increase of 0.1 TWh in 2021. This minimal growth is indicative of the slow progression in adopting sustainable energy solutions. There are no records of any nuclear energy developments, highlighting a potential area for future investment. The consistent absence of significant progress in establishing and expanding clean electricity has left Eritrea dependent on fossil fuels, underlining the critical need to shift focus towards sustainable and green energy investments. Such steps would not only meet the rising electricity demand but also align with global sustainable development goals.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade