Electricity in Liberia in 2022

In 2022, Liberia's electricity consumption was notably low, with almost all of the electricity generation coming from non-low-carbon sources. This indicates a significant reliance on fossil fuels, which are associated with climate change and harmful air pollution. The global average for electricity consumption is approximately 3606 watts per person, while Liberia's total is significantly lower, pointing to economic constraints and limited access to reliable electricity for its population. Such low levels of electricity generation can hinder economic development, restrict access to education and healthcare, and limit overall quality of life. Without a substantial increase in low-carbon electricity, Liberia is likely to face continued challenges in economic growth and social progress.

Suggestions

To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Liberia can learn from countries that have successfully integrated wind, solar, and nuclear power. For instance, Brazil, which shares some similarities with Liberia in terms of development, generates a considerable amount of electricity from wind power at about 97 TWh. Additionally, countries like India and Brazil have effectively expanded their solar power capabilities, yielding 125 TWh and 61 TWh respectively. By adopting policies that encourage investment in wind and solar infrastructure, and possibly exploring nuclear energy as a viable option, Liberia can transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable electricity grid. Emphasizing low-carbon technologies could provide Liberia with a stable and environmentally friendly electricity supply, greatly enhancing the quality of life for its residents.

History

Historically, low-carbon electricity generation in Liberia has been minimal, primarily relying on hydroelectric power. In the early 1980s, hydroelectric generation was fairly static with no significant changes until 1984 when there was a slight decline of around 0.1 TWh. By 1985, it briefly increased by the same amount, but then remained stagnant for several decades until a modest increase in 2020. The recent shift points to some potential for growth in hydropower; however, the lack of advancements in additional low-carbon options suggests that Liberia has not significantly prioritized expanding its clean energy capacity. With the potential environmental and economic benefits of low-carbon electricity, Liberia has an opportunity to redefine its energy strategy, potentially incorporating wind and solar alongside hydro to build a diverse and resilient green energy portfolio.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources