In 2023, Gabon's electricity consumption is marked by a nearly balanced split between fossil fuels and low-carbon energy. Fossil energy accounts for about 44%, largely driven by natural gas, which makes up around 30% of the total electricity consumption. On the other side of the spectrum, low-carbon energy contributes approximately 41% to the electricity supply, with hydropower being the dominant clean energy source at just over 40%. This substantial reliance on hydropower reflects Gabon's potential in harnessing its natural aquatic resources. However, it also highlights a heavy dependence on this single type of low-carbon energy. Additionally, Gabon relies on net imports for about 15% of its electricity needs, underscoring issues of self-sufficiency in its energy sector.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Gabon?
Despite Gabon's rich potential for low-carbon energy, electricity consumption is witnessing a slight decline, as evidenced by the recent figures. In 2023, electricity consumption per person was 1,517 kWh, a minor drop from the previous year, when it stood at 1,535 kWh per person. This decrease, albeit small, raises concerns about meeting the growing demand and ensuring a sustainable energy future. Moreover, the generation of low-carbon electricity per person has dwindled significantly from its peak in 1985, dropping from 817 kWh per person to the current levels of 616 kWh per person. This decline of 201 kWh per person in low-carbon electricity generation since 1985 is a troubling statistic, as it signals a trend away from cleaner energy solutions.
Suggestions
To bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, Gabon should explore a diversified approach by integrating solar and nuclear energy into its energy mix. Learning from regions with successful low-carbon practices, such as France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy forms a significant portion of the electricity supply, could be instrumental. Similarly, countries like Nevada and Lebanon have made notable strides in solar energy production. By investing in solar infrastructure and considering the development of nuclear energy capacity, Gabon can benefit from a more sustainable and reliable electricity supply that reduces its dependence on imports and fossil fuels. This would also align with global efforts to combat climate change and promote cleaner energy solutions.
History
In reviewing the historical trajectory of Gabon's low-carbon electricity, particularly hydropower, most of the 1980s saw steady small increments in electricity generation. Positive growth continued into the early 2000s, albeit with small fluctuations throughout the subsequent years. However, a troubling stagnation phase began in the mid-1990s, disrupting the growth of hydroelectricity. Fortunately, the late 2010s marked a resurgence, with a significant increase in hydroelectric capacity in 2019. While hydropower has been Gabon's primary low-carbon energy source, this historical analysis underscores the need for diversification into other clean energy forms to ensure resilience and growth in low-carbon electricity generation for the future.
