Electricity in Gabon in 2022

In 2022, Gabon's electricity consumption was characterized by a distinct mix of fossil and low-carbon energy sources. Around half of the country’s electricity was generated from fossil fuels, with gas accounting for the lion's share at just above 39%. In contrast, low-carbon energy sources contributed over a third to the electricity mix, underscored by hydropower, which alone provided nearly 34% of the electricity consumed. Additionally, imported electricity represented close to a fifth of the consumption. This diversification hints at the potential for Gabon to further capitalize on sustainable energy sources, though currently, the reliance on imported and fossil-based electricity remains a significant factor.

Suggestions

To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Gabon can look to examples from countries that have successfully expanded their clean energy portfolios. Given Gabon's abundant potential for hydropower due to its water resources, there is room for further development in this field. Additionally, emulating countries like Uruguay and Lithuania, which have expanded into wind energy, could diversify its low-carbon energy sources. These countries, having achieved significant portions of their electricity from specific low-carbon types, demonstrate how strategic investment and governmental support can herald a sustainable energy shift. Gabon could harness these lessons, focusing on expanding wind and solar capacities, aligning policy frameworks, and investing in infrastructure to reduce its dependency on fossil energy.

History

Delving into the history of low-carbon electricity in Gabon reveals a focus on hydropower development. In the early 1980s, Gabon experienced a steady gradual increase in hydroelectric generation, with small but consistent increments of 0.1 TWh annually. This trend saw a pause in the mid-1990s, with no changes in hydropower generation, and sporadic increases and decreases occurred thereafter through the early 2000s to the late 2010s. Despite fluctuations, the trend indicates Gabon’s long-standing reliance on hydropower, showcasing its potential as a pivotal component of its low-carbon electricity strategy. This historical emphasis on hydropower bodes well for Gabon’s low-carbon future as the basis for further sustainable energy investments.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources