Electricity in Gambia in 2021

To begin with, Gambia's current state of electricity consumption based on the data from 2021 reveals that the African nation has a significantly lower per capita electricity consumption than the global average - 410 watts per person. This accounts for both low-carbon and fossil energy. The consumption of low-carbon energy is nearly negligible, revealing a heavy reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation. Such a low level of electricity generation and the major absence of clean energy options raise significant environmental, economic, and social concerns. Challenges like climate change and air pollution, combined with potential electricity shortages, subtly affect Gambia's economic well-being, impairing developmental efforts and the health of resident communities.

Suggestions

When considering ways to boost low-carbon electricity generation in Gambia, successful countries in clean energy production can provide useful templates. Countries success in harnessing low-carbon energy range from wind energy, like in the People's Republic of China and the United States, nuclear power popular in the United States, Russia, and France, and solar energy, effectively utilized in the People's Republic of China, India, and the United States. Given Gambia's geophysical features, the country could potentially benefit from all three forms of low-carbon energy. This would, however, require strategic investments in energy infrastructure, specialized technical skills, and robust regulatory frameworks, learned from these countries.

History

Looking at the history of low-carbon electricity in Gambia, data reveals a fluctuating trend. The early years saw inconsistent shifts in low-carbon electricity generation, with some energy forms seeing growth, while others dwindled. However, in recent years, there's been a substantial decline in nuclear-based electricity generation, a discouraging trend considering the crucial role of nuclear power in meeting low-carbon energy targets. This relative decline underscores the urgent need for deliberate efforts, not just to forestall further drop in nuclear electricity production, but to spur a landmark upswing in all low-carbon electricity forms in Gambia. In light of increasing global concern over the adverse impacts of fossil fuels, such a time as this is ripe for a green revolution in Gambia's electricity generation, one underpinned by nuclear, wind, and solar energies.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources