Electricity in Liberia in 2022

As of 2022, electricity consumption in Liberia remains exceedingly low, particularly when compared to the global average. More than half of the global population enjoys access to a combination of low-carbon and fossil-based electricity sources, yet Liberia’s situation is notably different. The nation primarily relies on low-carbon hydroelectric power for its electricity generation but the amount produced is minimal, leaving a large percentage of the population with limited or no access to electricity. The total electricity consumption per person in Liberia is significantly below the global average of 3638 watts per person. Such a disparity in electricity generation and consumption can severely affect the country's economic development, health services, and quality of life. Additionally, relying solely on limited resources not only hampers growth but also pressures existing infrastructure, which is not sufficient to meet the demands of modern society.

Suggestions

To bridge this gap, Liberia can focus on increasing its low-carbon electricity generation. The country can look towards successful nations that leverage wind, solar, and nuclear power as key contributors to their energy portfolio. For instance, countries such as Brazil have found success in harnessing wind energy, generating over 100 TWh, which could serve as an inspiration for Liberia, given the similar renewable potential in terms of geography and resource availability. Additionally, following the technological advancements and strategic energy policies of nations like China and the United States, which produce large quantities of electricity from wind, solar, and nuclear sources, could provide a roadmap for Liberia. Emulating these models would not only increase electricity generation but also ensure a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly energy landscape for the future. Incorporating modern nuclear technology could also play a transformative role in diversifying and stabilizing Liberia's electricity supply.

History

Historically, Liberia's embrace of low-carbon hydroelectric power has been sporadic at best. From the early 1980s through to 1989, there was virtually no change in hydroelectric output, with no increment or decrement noted. This stagnant state persisted until the turn of the 21st century, where the year 2020 saw a positive shift with an increase of 0.5 TWh, although this was short-lived with subsequent stagnation in 2021 and 2022. This limited and inconsistent output not only reflects issues with infrastructure and investment but also underscores the need for a transformative approach towards stable and sustainable electricity resources. Such an approach will not only mend the gaps of the past but also pave the way for a future of abundance in low-carbon energy for Liberia.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources