In Rwanda, electricity consumption in 2023 shows a distinct reliance on low-carbon energy sources. More than half of the electricity in the country is generated from low-carbon sources, specifically hydroelectric power. However, the overall consumption per person remains very low at 77 kWh, which is only a small fraction of the global average of 3781 kWh/person. This stark difference indicates several challenges for Rwanda, including limitations in industrial growth, reduced access to technology, and a potential hindrance to socioeconomic development. The low per capita generation also suggests that a large portion of the population may have limited access to reliable electricity, affecting daily life and productivity.
Is Electricity Growing in Rwanda?
The growth of electricity consumption in Rwanda has seen a stagnation recently, as evident from the 2023 records, which report no change compared to the previous year. The consumption per person remained at 77 kWh, just shy of the preceding record of 78 kWh/person in 2022. Similarly, the low-carbon electricity generation slightly declined, with the 2023 figure dipping just below its 2021 high. This stagnation is concerning and suggests an urgent need for a strategic push to boost electricity generation, especially from clean sources, to ensure future growth and improved living standards.
Suggestions
To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Rwanda can look to international examples for inspiration. Emulating the success of countries like China and the United States in harnessing solar and nuclear energy can present a viable path forward. China has achieved remarkable results, generating substantial electricity from solar energy, while the United States highlights the potential of nuclear energy. Given Rwanda's geographical position near the equator, solar energy has immense potential and can be a game-changer for the country's energy profile. Exploring nuclear energy as a sustainable long-term solution can also contribute significantly to meeting Rwanda's energy needs.
History
Historically, Rwanda's low-carbon electricity generation has shown modest and largely consistent reliance on hydroelectric power. From the mid-1990s to 2021, hydroelectric power generation fluctuated minimally, demonstrating a stable but limited growth pattern. Since 1996, hydroelectric generation experienced some slight ups and downs with minor increases every few years and no substantial declines, reflecting a generally steady trajectory. This historical focus on hydroelectricity can serve as a foundation, complemented by the modern emphasis on solar and potentially nuclear energy, to sustainably expand Rwanda's electricity generation capacity in the years ahead.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.