Electricity in Niger in 2023
In 2023, electricity consumption in Niger remains significantly low, with each person using approximately 77 kWh. This is just a fraction compared to the global average of 3781 kWh/person, reflecting the challenges the country faces in electricity generation. The generation mix indicates a heavy reliance on imported electricity, accounting for more than the small amount generated domestically. Low-carbon electricity, which combines solar and other clean energy sources, contributes a negligible amount to the overall supply. In stark contrast, clean energy plays a substantial role globally, yet in Niger, the adoption of such sources is still quite limited. This lack of electricity has profound implications, potentially stalling economic progression, hindering education advancement, increasing air pollution from unregulated fossil fuel use, and severely limiting access to clean energy for all.
Is Electricity Growing in Niger?
Despite the pressing need for growth in the electricity sector, Niger's electricity consumption has not shown any significant improvement over time, as evidenced by the identical per capita consumption figures in both 2022 and 2023. The stagnation is particularly evident in the area of low-carbon electricity generation, where solar power capacity has remained unchanged since 2019, representing “close to none” of the electricity mix. The failure to amplify this aspect of the energy supply stifles progress towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. The stagnation is concerning, as growth in these areas is vital to reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels and mitigating environmental impacts.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Niger could benefit from looking at the strategies of other regions that have successfully expanded their clean energy portfolios. For instance, China and the United States have made significant strides in the adoption of solar and wind technology, generating 890 TWh and 461 TWh respectively through wind alone. Likewise, these countries have also showed substantial nuclear energy output with the United States producing 781 TWh. Niger could harness solar energy, which is immensely abundant and cost-effective, similarly to successful solar investments in India and Brazil. Embracing nuclear energy as France and South Korea have, with their substantial nuclear generating capabilities, could also significantly bolster sustainable electricity supply. By adopting nuclear and solar strategies from these countries, Niger can achieve a cleaner energy mix while reducing fossil fuel dependence.
History
Over recent decades, particularly since 2005, there has been no recorded increase in solar electricity generation in Niger, which is alarming. The trends from 2005 to 2023 show a continuous pattern of zero growth in solar energy capacity, with each year between these clearly indicating no change. This stagnation contrasts sharply with the rapid growth and innovations in solar technology observed across the globe and emphasizes the urgent need for Niger to take decisive actions to bridge its energy gap. Looking towards the future, it is essential for Niger to prioritize the integration and expansion of low-carbon energy sources to avoid further falling behind in global energy standards and to lead its citizenry towards a more sustainable and prosperous future.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.