As of 2023, Gabon's electricity consumption is marked by a balanced reliance on both fossil fuels and low-carbon energy sources. Fossil energy accounts for approximately 44% of the electricity consumed, with gas making up almost a third of this consumption. On the low-carbon front, hydropower serves as the predominant clean energy source, contributing about 40%, which is more than half of the clean energy consumed. Net imports make up a smaller share, at roughly 15%, which complements domestic production. The energy mix indicates a significant use of clean energy; however, there is room for growth and the possibility to increase the share of low-carbon electricity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Is Electricity Growing in Gabon?
Recent trends suggest that electricity consumption in Gabon is experiencing a slight decline. In 2023, electricity consumption per person recorded a decrease to 1517 kWh/person from the previous year's record of 1535 kWh/person. This slight drop, though relatively minor, highlights a need to reinvigorate and expand electrical generation capacity to meet future demands. The situation is similar for low-carbon electricity generation, which recorded 616 kWh/person, trailing behind the previous high seen in 1985 of 817 kWh/person. This decrease of 201 kWh/person over the years signals a potential gap in advancing clean energy deployment, urging immediate initiatives to boost low-carbon technologies.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Gabon could draw inspiration from countries proficient in maximizing wind, solar, or nuclear power. For instance, countries like Morocco have efficiently utilized wind energy for a significant portion of their electricity needs, with wind providing 21% of the electricity generated. Similarly, countries such as Lebanon and Somalia have made notable strides in solar energy, with solar contributing around 17-31% of their electricity. Implementing strategies from these nations, such as investments in solar panel installations and wind farms, could significantly bolster Gabon's clean energy. Additionally, exploring nuclear energy as exemplified by countries like France and Slovakia, where it constitutes 60-70% of electricity generation, might provide Gabon a robust and sustainable pathway to energy security and climate resilience.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Gabon suggests a gradual yet fluctuating development path primarily driven by hydropower. During the early 1980s, hydropower saw consistent yet incremental growth with a steady annual increase of 0.1 TWh. This pattern persisted into the mid-1990s, experiencing minor expansions followed by a few years of stagnation or decreases, particularly in 2005, 2007, 2011, and 2014. It's notable that hydropower saw a significant boost in 2019 with an increase of 0.4 TWh, one of the largest annual growths. This thus sets a positive precedent, albeit with room for more consistent thus sustainable improvements. Looking forward, further enhancement of clean energy generation, particularly through solar and nuclear options, seems vital for capitalizing on Gabon's natural resources to foster a cleaner energy future.