In 2023, Guinea's electricity consumption reflects a significant reliance on low-carbon sources, with low-carbon electricity accounting for more than two-thirds of the total. This clean energy is predominantly generated from hydropower, contributing almost all of the 3.03 TWh from low-carbon sources. On the other hand, fossil fuels contribute just over 1 TWh to the energy mix. The average electricity consumption per person in Guinea is 281 kWh, which is dramatically lower than the global average of 3649 kWh per person. This low level of electricity generation can hinder economic development, reduce the quality of life, and limit access to modern technology and educational resources, despite Guinea's wealth in natural resources.
Data sources used on this page include EIA and Ember. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Guinea?
Recent data indicates a slight decline in electricity generation in Guinea. The latest electricity consumption of 281 kWh per person in 2023 decreased by a marginal three units from a historical high, recorded in 2022 at 285 kWh per person. Similarly, low-carbon electricity saw a minor decrease from its peak in 2022, moving from 212 kWh to 210 kWh per person. These downward trends are concerning, particularly in light of global goals for enhancing electricity access and sustainability. The decline underscores the urgent need for Guinea to enhance its electricity generation capabilities, especially focusing on low-carbon sources which are crucial for meeting future demands sustainably.
Suggestions
To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Guinea can learn from successful global models by prioritizing solar and nuclear energy development. For solar power, regions like China and the United States have seen substantial generation, with China producing an impressive 1117 TWh from solar alone. Guinea should consider expanding its use of solar technology, given its favorable geographic conditions. Furthermore, nuclear power can play a pivotal role in ensuring a stable and reliable electricity supply. The United States and France have demonstrated the efficacy of nuclear energy, generating 781 TWh and 369 TWh respectively. Emulating these countries' strategies could help Guinea in building a resilient and sustainable energy system that supports the growing electricity demands.
History
Historically, low-carbon electricity generation in Guinea has been dominated by hydropower, with various fluctuations across the years. In the early years, from the 1980s to the 1990s, hydroelectric generation experienced incremental increases, while the new millennium saw both growth and setbacks. Notably, 2003 and 2014 recorded declines, but the significant upturn in 2015 and particularly the substantial increase in 2020 were promising developments. The introduction of solar energy in 2021, although initial growth was stagnant, marked a diversification effort in the energy mix. This historical trend highlights both challenges and opportunities, and places emphasis on the need for strategic planning to stabilize and increase the country's low-carbon electricity generation, using lessons from similar trajectories globally.
