In 2023, Guinea's electricity consumption is characterized by a reliance on low-carbon energy sources, with hydropower being the predominant type. The country generated a total of 4 TWh of electricity, with more than three-quarters coming from clean energy sources, specifically hydropower at 3 TWh, while fossil fuel sources contributed the remaining 1 TWh. This distribution highlights a relatively strong commitment to clean energy in Guinea's electricity generation portfolio. However, the total electricity consumption per person remains significantly lower than the global average, which stands at 3813 watts per person. Such low levels of electricity generation can impact the country's economic development, limit access to reliable energy for industrial and domestic use, and potentially discourage foreign investment due to concerns about energy reliability and sustainability.
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Guinea can take inspiration from successful implementations in other countries. China has made remarkable strides in wind and solar power generation, with outputs of 992 TWh and 834 TWh respectively. Similarly, India's solar output of 134 TWh demonstrates significant progress. Guinea could harness its potential by investing in wind and solar technologies, taking advantage of abundant sunshine and favorable wind conditions in certain regions. Moreover, exploring nuclear energy as an option could provide a stable and substantial supply of electricity, just as it does in countries like France and the United States. By adopting these strategies and investing in modernization and technological advancements, Guinea could enhance its clean energy capacity and ensure a more sustainable future.
The history of low-carbon electricity in Guinea shows a consistent use of hydropower starting in the early 1980s. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the country experienced some fluctuations including minor decreases and increases, particularly in 2003 with a decline of 0.2 TWh, and subsequent gains such as a notable increase of 0.5 TWh in 2015. A significant development occurred in 2021 with an impressive surge of 1.2 TWh, indicating a robust expansion in the country's hydropower infrastructure. Recent years have shown a steady yet moderate increase, with a notable advancement of 0.3 TWh in 2022, but stagnation in 2023. This history highlights Guinea's continued reliance on hydropower, underscoring the potential to diversify its energy profile with additional clean energy technologies. By integrating wind, solar, and potentially nuclear energy, Guinea could fortify its low-carbon electricity landscape and further propel sustainable energy growth.