Electricity in São Tomé & Príncipe in 2022
In São Tomé & Príncipe, the current state of electricity consumption in 2022 highlights a significant dependence on fossil energy, with low-carbon energy sources like hydroelectricity accounting for only a minor portion of total consumption—close to none. With the total electricity consumption per person at 398 kWh, the country is substantially below the global average of 3813 kWh per person. This low level of electricity generation may have multiple adverse effects, including hindering economic growth, limiting the ability to improve living standards, and constraining access to technological advancements which greatly depend on reliable and sufficient electricity supplies. More than half of the world's countries are pushing towards cleaner energy alternatives, which will eventually reduce fossil fuel reliance, but São Tomé & Príncipe needs a more focused approach.
Is Electricity Growing in São Tomé & Príncipe?
Examining the trend in São Tomé & Príncipe's electricity consumption reveals a declining trajectory. In 2016, electricity consumption hit a record high at 540 kWh per person, but by 2022, this figure had dropped by 142 kWh per person. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation has seen a decrease from 69 kWh per person in 2000 to 44 kWh in 2022. This -25 kWh change is a pressing concern as it signals a retreat from the use of clean energy sources. Such declines are worrying since increasing clean energy capacity is crucial for overcoming electricity shortages and reducing dependence on environmentally harmful fossil fuels. Without strategic growth in clean electricity, São Tomé & Príncipe may fall further behind as other nations advance.
Suggestions
A decisive way for São Tomé & Príncipe to increase its low-carbon electricity generation would be to focus on the expansion of nuclear and solar energy, taking cues from other countries' successes. For instance, China's robust development of wind and solar energy demonstrates how dedicated investments can lead to significant gains, while Brazil's utilization of wind power is notable in a similar regional context. By adopting strategies that promote infrastructure development for solar and, where feasible, nuclear energy, São Tomé & Príncipe can drive its clean electricity capacity. Implementing policy frameworks that attract investment in solar technology and partner with countries that have achieved high levels of nuclear energy generation, like France and the United States, will be essential steps forward.
History
Historically, low-carbon electricity generation in São Tomé & Príncipe has witnessed stagnation rather than growth. Over the last few decades, particularly from 2002 to 2022, the country has not experienced any noticeable change in hydroelectric power generation, consistently registering zero net change. This stagnation is disappointing, as it hampers progress towards more sustainable energy solutions. The consistent zero growth points out a missed opportunity and underscores the urgent need for a transformative approach to energy policies. By prioritizing low-carbon technologies like solar and nuclear, the country can finally embark on a path to energy growth that aligns with global efforts to combat climate change.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.