Electricity in Niger in 2023
As of 2023, Niger's electricity consumption is profoundly low, with individuals using just 77 kWh per person annually. This is dramatically lower than the global average of 3813 kWh per person, indicating a severe shortage in electricity generation, which can affect economic development, healthcare, and the general quality of life. The majority of Niger's electricity supply consists of fossil fuels, while low-carbon energy sources contribute almost nothing to the country's energy mix. The notion of low-carbon or clean electricity is especially significant when considering Niger's reliance on electricity imports, which account for 1.21 TWh of the overall electricity requirements. The minimal presence of clean energy raises concerns about the ongoing emissions and their contribution to climate change.
Is Electricity Growing in Niger?
The stagnation in Niger's electricity growth is concerning, as the latest figures show no increase—remaining stable at 77 kWh per person in both 2022 and 2023. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation has not seen any growth since the low-carbon record was also stagnant at 1 kWh per person since 2019. This lack of progress presents a serious hurdle to overcoming energy poverty and achieving sustainable development goals in the region. It is crucial to address these challenges and stimulate the growth of clean and reliable electricity resources to follow the global trend towards cleaner energy.
Suggestions
For Niger to increase its low-carbon electricity generation, the country can take inspiration from the successful examples of other nations. For instance, China and India have significantly increased their clean electricity output through solar technology, making solar a promising avenue for Niger given its ample sunlight. The construction of solar farms can be an efficient strategy for Niger to harness its abundant solar potential. Additionally, exploring the potential for wind energy could be beneficial, as demonstrated by countries like Germany and Brazil, which have successfully integrated wind power into their low-carbon energy mix. The transition to clean electricity sources in Niger is vital for enhancing energy security and reducing reliance on imported electricity.
History
Looking back at the history of low-carbon electricity in Niger, solar energy has seen no recorded growth from 2005 to 2023, a period during which many countries worldwide have advanced their clean energy capabilities. This lengthy stretch of stagnation indicates an urgent need for policy changes and investment in solar technology within Niger. The consistent lack of progress suggests that prior strategies may have been insufficient or neglected, making it imperative for future efforts to focus on the development and implementation of solar and perhaps nuclear energy solutions. This shift is not only necessary to reduce climate and air pollution from fossil fuels but also to secure a sustainable energy future for the nation.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.