As of 2023, electricity consumption in Guinea shows a significant inclination towards low-carbon sources, with hydropower being the predominant contributor. Low-carbon sources, including hydropower, deliver approximately 3 TWh, which accounts for a considerable portion of the electricity generation mix, with fossil energy contributing around 1 TWh. However, when it comes to per capita electricity consumption, Guinea is generating significantly less, at about 281 kWh per person, in contrast to the global average of 3781 kWh. This substantial gap can limit development opportunities, hinder industrial growth, and pose challenges to meeting energy demands for emerging technologies and electrification efforts.
Is Electricity Growing in Guinea?
Unfortunately, electricity consumption in Guinea has slightly declined, suggesting a stagnating energy sector. In 2023, the per capita electricity consumption reduced by 3 kWh from its peak of 285 kWh in 2022. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation per capita saw a modest decrease from 212 kWh to 210 kWh over the same period. These small reductions, while seemingly minor, indicate the importance of renewed focus and investment in sustainable energy development to ensure a robust and growing energy supply in the future.
Suggestions
To amplify low-carbon electricity generation in Guinea, it is essential to draw lessons from global leaders in clean energy. Solar and wind energy are rapidly advancing sectors worldwide, with countries like China exhibiting massive solar and wind growth, generating 890 TWh from solar and 1093 TWh from wind. For nuclear energy, the United States leads with 781 TWh, showcasing the potential of nuclear as a reliable clean energy source. Guinea can emulate these regional successes by fostering solar and nuclear growth, potentially reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions, thus paving the way for sustainable national development.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Guinea has seen fluctuations, primarily due to variations in hydropower output. Starting from the early years, minor increments, such as 0.1 TWh in the 1980s and 1990s, show gradual growth. However, some infrastructural unpredictability is evident, with a notable decline in 2003 (-0.2 TWh) and sporadic ups and downs in subsequent years. The growth picked up after 2015, with significant advances such as 1.2 TWh in 2021, demonstrating the potential to increase capacity. Underlining this capacity, innovative advancements and investments are essential to sustain and upscale Guinea’s low-carbon electricity generation to balance the needs of today with the demands of tomorrow effectively.