Electricity in Mali in 2022

In 2022, Mali's electricity consumption stood notably low compared to the global average. Fossil fuels accounted for more than half of the total, with about 2.26 TWh generated, while low-carbon sources produced around 1.49 TWh. Of the latter, hydropower was the primary contributor, making up nearly all of it with 1.4 TWh. When comparing these figures to the global average electricity consumption of 3,606 watts per person, Mali's residents experience significantly lower power availability. These low levels of generation may adversely affect many aspects of life, including economic growth, educational opportunities, and healthcare services, as reliable electricity access is integral to development.

Suggestions

To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Mali can look to successful techniques employed by other nations. For instance, India, which shares some geographical and developmental similarities with Mali, generated significant electricity from solar and wind sources, with 125 TWh and 92 TWh, respectively. Brazil, whose wind production stands at 97 TWh, also offers a valuable model for wind energy development. Additionally, considering nuclear energy as a key player in clean power generation can be highly beneficial, as evidenced by countries like China and the United States, which produce 411 TWh and 790 TWh, respectively, from nuclear. Emulating these strategies can diversify Mali's energy mix and significantly enhance its low-carbon electricity capacity.

History

Mali's history of low-carbon electricity shows modest developments primarily in hydropower, with sporadic increments. In the early 2000s, biofuels contributed slightly with 0.1 TWh, but hydropower remained the focal point. From 2005 onwards, there were alternating upward and downward changes in hydropower generation, with noticeable increases in 2005, 2010, 2014, 2016, and 2022, where it saw a 0.4 TWh additional capacity each. Occasionally, like in 2015 and 2019, hydropower faced declines, yet the general trend points towards incremental increases. Even though solar saw some beginnings in 2010 with no substantial growth mentioned, Mali’s potential lies in adopting more robust strategies from other nations to fortify its low-carbon energy landscape.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources