In Mali, electricity consumption in 2023 illustrates a significant reliance on both fossil and low-carbon sources, though fossil fuels dominate the landscape. Fossil energy, such as oil and gas, contributes approximately 2.5 TWh, while low-carbon sources account for 1.86 TWh. Within the low-carbon category, hydropower stands out by providing the majority, at 1.64 TWh. This translates to more than half of Mali's electricity coming from fossil sources and the remainder from clean options like hydropower and other low-carbon technologies. Compared to the global average of 3781 kWh per person, Mali's electricity consumption is a mere 193 kWh per person, which may hinder economic development and the potential for widespread electrification. Limited access to reliable electricity can restrict educational opportunities, health services, and industrial growth, thereby slowing socio-economic progress and exacerbating the impact of pollution and climate issues tied to fossil fuels.
Is Electricity Growing in Mali?
While electricity generation remains a critical challenge for Mali, the recent figures indicate a worrying trend of decline rather than growth. The total electricity consumption has decreased to 193 kWh per person from the previous year's record of 200 kWh per person, marking a reduction of 7 kWh per person. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation has seen a slight drop, falling to 78 kWh per person from a peak of 82 kWh in 2016. The decline in both total and low-carbon electricity generation reflects an urgent need for Mali to recommit to its energy goals, amplifying its production capabilities and reversing these concerning trends to cope with increasing demand and achieve sustainable development milestones.
Suggestions
To bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, Mali can look to successful strategies employed in other regions that have excelled in solar and wind power as well as nuclear energy. The People's Republic of China is exemplary in its use of wind and solar, producing 992 TWh and 834 TWh respectively, showcasing the potential for scaling these technologies. In countries like France and the United States, nuclear energy plays a vital role in their low-carbon energy mix, generating 379 TWh and 782 TWh, respectively. Furthermore, nations like Brazil, which harness wind energy efficiently, and Germany, which has made significant strides in both solar and wind, can provide valuable insights. Mali could apply similar strategies by investing in solar and nuclear energy, given its abundant solar resources and the global success stories of nations that have successfully integrated nuclear into their energy systems.
History
The trajectory of low-carbon electricity in Mali over the years reveals periods of progress punctuated by challenges. In the early 2000s, biofuels and hydropower saw slight increments, with biofuels contributing a modest 0.1 TWh in 2000. Hydroelectric generation experienced fluctuations, with notable increases of 0.4 TWh in 2010 and 2016, signaling phases of development. Unfortunately, these gains were often offset by declines, such as the 0.3 TWh drop in 2015. Solar energy started contributing in 2020 with a 0.1 TWh increase, offering a glimpse into potential future expansion. Despite these developments, the erratic changes highlight the need for a steadier and more robust approach to growing low-carbon electricity production, emphasizing strategic investments, policy support, and learning from global best practices to realize its full potential.