Electricity in Niger in 2022

In 2022, Niger's electricity consumption was characterized by a heavy reliance on imports, with net imports reaching approximately 1.17 TWh. Coming from a low baseline, the country's domestic electricity generation is notably minimal and heavily dependent on traditional sources, mostly fossil fuels. Low-carbon or clean electricity sources, such as wind, solar, and nuclear, are close to nonexistent in Niger's electricity mix. When compared to the global average of 3,638 watts per person, the electricity consumption per capita in Niger remains well below this mark. This scarcity of electricity access limits industrial growth, affects the quality of life, and hinders the provision of essential services such as healthcare and education, which are vital for social and economic development.

Suggestions

To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Niger can learn from various countries around the world that have successfully diversified their energy portfolios. For instance, China and India have made significant strides in solar energy, generating 710 TWh and 128 TWh respectively, suggesting that solar power could be a viable, scalable option for Niger given its abundant sunlight. Similarly, countries like Brazil and South Africa have embraced wind energy, with Brazil producing 102 TWh and South Africa making smaller yet noteworthy contributions. Exploring nuclear energy, as seen with countries like Pakistan and South Korea, could also present a sustainable and efficient long-term solution for Niger's electricity needs, helping reduce its vulnerability to climate change while fostering industrial and technological developments.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in Niger, specifically solar power, reveals stagnation. From 2005 to 2022, solar energy's contribution to electricity generation remained unchanged at zero TWh annually, indicating a lack of substantial development in leveraging one of the region's most abundant resources. This inertia over more than a decade stresses the urgency for strategic initiatives to develop local capacity in solar and other clean energy sources. By emulating global best practices, harnessing its natural resources, and investing in technological advancements, Niger has the potential to transition towards a sustainable and secure electricity framework in the future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources