In 2022, Guinea's electricity generation primarily relied on low-carbon sources, contributing over two-thirds of its total electricity output. Hydropower alone accounted for almost all of the low-carbon electricity, producing around 2 TWh, while fossil fuels contributed around 1 TWh to the nation's power supply. Comparing Guinea's electricity consumption to the global average, which stands at about 3638 watts per person, highlights a significant disparity, indicating that Guinea's per capita electricity consumption is much lower than global standards. These low levels of electricity generation can lead to limited access to reliable power, hampering economic growth and development. Insufficient electricity can affect crucial sectors such as healthcare, education, and industry, limiting Guinea's ability to improve the quality of life for its citizens.
To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Guinea can draw lessons from other countries' successes, particularly in adopting diversified strategies. Brazil, for example, demonstrates the potential of wind power, generating 102 TWh from this source. Similarly, countries like India and the People's Republic of China showcase robust solar power development, with outputs of 128 TWh and 710 TWh, respectively. By investing in wind and solar technologies, Guinea could diversify its low-carbon energy portfolio, reducing reliance on hydropower, which can be vulnerable to climate variations. Furthermore, exploring the potential for nuclear energy could provide Guinea with a stable and sustainable electricity source, as seen in countries like France and India, where nuclear energy contributes significantly to their electricity generation.
Guinea's journey in developing low-carbon electricity has been characterized by various shifts in hydropower generation over the decades. In the 1980s and 1990s, the country saw modest increases, with occasional years like 1983 and 1997 seeing a growth of 0.1 TWh. Entering the 21st century, there were noticeable fluctuations, with years like 2003 experiencing a decline of 0.2 TWh. However, significant progress was made around 2019 and 2020, with increases of 0.6 TWh and 1.2 TWh, respectively, although 2021 saw a step back with a decrease of 0.5 TWh. These changes highlight the potential for growth in sustainable energy, underscoring the need for strategic planning to ensure continuous and reliable expansion of Guinea's low-carbon electricity capacity.