Electricity in Niger in 2023
In 2023, the state of electricity consumption in Niger is remarkably low, with the average person consuming about 77 kWh annually. This amount is strikingly less than the global average, which stands at 3781 kWh per person. Most electricity in Niger is imported, accounting for more than 1 TWh, with nearly no clean energy sources contributing to the mix. This heavy reliance on imports and fossil fuel generation limits Niger's energy independence and contributes to climate change through greenhouse gas emissions. The effects of such low electricity generation are profound, stifling economic growth, hindering access to modern technology, and exacerbating challenges in health and education sectors due to an unreliable power supply.
Is Electricity Growing in Niger?
Currently, Niger is experiencing stagnation in electricity consumption, with recent years showing no increase. The per-person electricity consumption in 2023 remains the same as in 2022, at 77 kWh. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation has seen no growth, maintaining a constant 1 kWh per person since the record number in 2019. This stagnation indicates a lack of progress towards sustainable energy solutions and raises concerns about meeting future energy demands, particularly as the need to transition to clean energy becomes increasingly urgent.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Niger can take valuable lessons from successful regions that have embraced solar and nuclear energy. For example, embracing solar energy, as seen in countries like India and Brazil, which are generating significant electricity from this clean source, could be pivotal for Niger due to its abundant sunlight. Similarly, nuclear energy, thriving in countries like France and the United States, offers a reliable and significant source of low-carbon electricity. By investing in these technologies, Niger could improve its energy sustainability, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and enhance national energy security—all crucial steps towards a cleaner energy future.
History
Historically, Niger's low-carbon electricity landscape has been stagnant, particularly in solar energy development. Since as far back as 2005, there has been no recorded increase in solar electricity generation, indicating a decade-long hindrance in tapping into this potent energy source. The absence of development in solar energy over such an extended period showcases a missed opportunity for growth in clean energy capacity. It underscores an urgent need for strategic action to harness Niger's solar potential, shifting gears from prolonged stagnation to proactive development of sustainable energy infrastructure.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.