Electricity in Guinea-Bissau in 2022
In 2022, electricity consumption per person in Guinea-Bissau was about 38 kWh, which is merely a fraction compared to the global average of approximately 3658 kWh per person. This indicates that Guinea-Bissau is experiencing minimal electricity consumption, resulting in limited access to energy for most of its population. The electricity generation in Guinea-Bissau relies exclusively on fossil fuels, given its low-carbon electricity generation is effectively non-existent or "close to none." The stark contrast to the global average suggests that the availability of electricity in the country is exceptionally constrained, which can impede economic development, education, and quality of life. Without significantly increasing its electricity generation capacity, especially from low-carbon sources, Guinea-Bissau might struggle with challenges such as insufficient infrastructure development and economic stagnation.
Data sources used on this page include Ember. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Guinea-Bissau?
In assessing whether electricity generation is growing in Guinea-Bissau, it's noticeable that the country's electricity consumption has decreased slightly from its peak in 2016, dropping by 6 kWh per person. The stagnation or declining trend reflects not just in total electricity consumption but also in low-carbon generation, which has remained at zero since the year 2000. This decline is concerning, as it suggests a lack of progress and possible setbacks in achieving energy growth and development goals. Increasing electricity consumption is crucial to meet both current and future demands, especially as electrification and technological advancements escalate. Therefore, proactive measures are essential to reverse the slide in electricity consumption and to expand clean electricity generation, which did not experience any change from its historic lows.
Suggestions
Increasing low-carbon electricity generation in Guinea-Bissau could draw inspiration from several successful international examples. Among these, the People's Republic of China and India have made significant advances in solar energy production, harnessing environmental resources effectively. Similarly, wind energy can be a viable option, as seen in nations like Germany and Texas, where wind resources have contributed significantly to their clean energy quotas. Furthermore, nuclear energy offers another pathway, exemplified by France and the United States, countries that have successfully integrated nuclear power into their energy mix. By considering the diverse approaches and successes of these regions, Guinea-Bissau could strategize to develop a robust low-carbon infrastructure that includes solar, wind, and nuclear energy deployments.
History
Historically, Guinea-Bissau has had no change in its low-carbon energy production since data began, illustrating a period of stagnation in this regard. This implies that for the past several decades of the 21st century, the country has not pursued or achieved any advancements in clean energy electricity production. Unlike regions experiencing fluctuations or downturns in nuclear energy, particularly due to political or social setbacks, Guinea-Bissau's scenario suggests a non-existent investment or initiative in this area from the outset. This continued inactivity in low-carbon energy development is a critical issue that the nation must address promptly. Investing in solar and nuclear energy technologies, as other regions have successfully done, is imperative to ensure sustainable future growth and a positive transformation in its energy sector.
