As of 2023, Ghana's electricity consumption is largely dominated by fossil fuels, which account for a significant 61% share. This is mainly attributed to gas, which makes up nearly 60% of the total electricity consumption. On the other hand, low-carbon energy sources represent around 39% of the electricity mix. Among these clean sources, hydropower is prominent, contributing nearly 38% to the overall consumption. It's clear that while Ghana is relying significantly on low-carbon energy, fossil fuels continue to hold a dominant position in the country's electricity production.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Ghana?
Electricity consumption in Ghana is on an upward trajectory with 2023 witnessing a new per capita record of 719 kWh. This marks a modest growth from the 700 kWh per person recorded in 2022, reflecting an increase of 18 kWh per person. Despite the overall increase in electricity use, the consumption of low-carbon electricity has experienced a decline compared to its historic peak in 1980, when it stood at 444 kWh per person. The latest figures show that low-carbon electricity generation has decreased by 167 kWh per person, clocking in at 277 kWh per person for 2023. This discrepancy indicates room for improvement in expanding environmentally friendly electricity generation.
Suggestions
To boost its low-carbon electricity generation, Ghana can look to successful regions around the world for inspiration. Solar energy, which has shown great results in states like Nevada with 33% and emerging markets like Lebanon with 31%, could be a key area for development in Ghana. On the nuclear front, observing countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear power accounts for 70% and 66% of electricity respectively, can offer critical insights. Ghana might benefit from investing in both these technologies, ensuring a more sustainable and efficient energy mix in the future. Learning from these global leaders, especially regions with similar economic aspirations or resource availability, will be crucial for Ghana's progress in clean energy.
History
Ghana's journey with low-carbon electricity, specifically hydropower, has seen fluctuating changes over the decades. In the early 1980s, notable declines were recorded, such as in 1983 and 1984, where hydropower generation dropped significantly. However, recovery began in the mid-80s, with stable growth marked in 1985 and 1986. The 1990s and early 2000s experienced diverse shifts, including both ups and downs with spikes in certain years like 2008. Notably, recent years have shown some positive progress with small yet consistent increases in hydropower generation, particularly notable in 2022 and 2023, which marks a promising return to growth.
