Mauritania's electricity consumption in 2022 reveals a significant reliance on fossil energy sources, with more than half (59%) of its electricity generated from fossil fuels. This means that the country's electricity generation is predominantly carbon-intensive, contributing to climate change and air pollution. Low-carbon energy types, including hydropower, solar, and wind, together account for marginally over a fifth (22%) of the electricity mix. Among these, hydropower constitutes around a tenth (10%), solar almost 7%, and wind close to 5%. Additionally, nearly a fifth (19%) of Mauritania’s electricity needs are met through net imports. The current energy profile presents a significant opportunity to further transition towards clean energy sources, reducing the dependence on imported electricity and fossil fuels.
Data sources used on this page include EIA and Ember. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Mauritania?
Mauritania's electricity consumption has seen a slight upward trend. The per capita electricity consumption rose to 414 kWh in 2022, which marks a small increase from the previous record in 2020 of 402 kWh per person. However, the low-carbon electricity generation per capita has fallen from its 2019 record of 105 kWh to 92 kWh in 2022. This decline of 13 kWh in clean electricity generation per person is concerning, as it suggests a reduced pace in the shift towards sustainable energy. Efforts to enhance total electricity consumption should accompany robust actions to amplify low-carbon sources, ensuring they form a larger share of the growing electricity supply.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Mauritania should consider the examples of regions such as Nevada and Lebanon, which have successfully harnessed solar energy, generating 34% and 31% of their electricity from solar power, respectively. Additionally, Denmark's impressive utilization of wind power, contributing 60% of its electricity, provides a model for harnessing wind’s potential in suitable areas. Given the relevance of solar and wind in Mauritania, replicating these successful strategies will help reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Mauritania should also explore the potential for nuclear energy by learning from countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear accounts for a substantial portion of electricity generation. With advances in small modular reactors and the growing global emphasis on clean energy, nuclear energy can complement Mauritania's energy strategy for robust, sustainable growth.
History
Historically, the journey of low-carbon electricity in Mauritania exhibits a sporadic developmental pattern. In the early 2000s, hydropower remained stagnant, with no significant additions until a slight uptick in 2009. The 2010s saw the introduction of solar and wind energy, albeit initially contributing little to the overall electricity mix. While 2015 marked a positive change with the first notable increase in wind energy, subsequent years showed little progress, pointing to missed opportunities for accelerating the transition towards clean energy. It is crucial for Mauritania to draw lessons from these decades and prioritize the expansion of its low-carbon infrastructure to meet the growing demand for sustainable electricity.
