Electricity in São Tomé & Príncipe in 2022
In 2022, São Tomé & Príncipe had an electricity consumption of approximately 398 kWh per person, which is significantly lower than the global average of 3781 kWh per person. This indicates a substantial disparity in electricity access, with local usage equating to just over a tenth of the global average. Fossil fuels continue to dominate, providing the majority of the country's electricity, while low-carbon sources contribute a meager 44 kWh per person. This overreliance on fossil energy not only limits the availability and reliability of electricity but also poses significant challenges such as increased carbon emissions, contributing to climate change and air pollution. The limited availability of electricity can impact economic growth and development, hinder the advancement of technology and innovation, and negatively affect the quality of life for residents.
Is Electricity Growing in São Tomé & Príncipe?
Examining electricity growth in São Tomé & Príncipe reveals a concerning picture. The latest data shows a decline in electricity consumption from a previous high of 540 kWh per person in 2016, marking a reduction of 142 kWh per person. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation decreased from its peak of 69 kWh per person in 2000 to 44 kWh per person in 2022. This decrease of 25 kWh suggests that the country is moving in the wrong direction regarding clean energy. The stagnation and decline in these figures are worrisome, as they suggest challenges in meeting energy demands and transitioning to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy system.
Suggestions
To foster an increase in low-carbon electricity generation, São Tomé & Príncipe can draw valuable lessons from successful regions around the world. China has exemplified rapid growth in wind and solar energy, generating 1122 TWh and 1025 TWh respectively, showcasing the potential of harnessing natural resources for sustainable energy. Likewise, Brazil has made significant strides with wind energy, producing 114 TWh. Given São Tomé & Príncipe’s geographic characteristics, a focus on developing solar energy similar to regions such as India (154 TWh) and Japan (103 TWh) can be highly beneficial. Nuclear energy, as demonstrated by countries like France (363 TWh) and the United States (778 TWh), offers a reliable and robust clean energy solution, which should be explored alongside solar developments to stimulate growth and ensure energy stability and sustainability.
History
Throughout recent decades, low-carbon electricity generation in São Tomé & Príncipe, primarily from hydroelectric sources, has remained stagnant. This trend, evident since at least 2002 through to 2022, shows no recorded increases in hydroelectric generation. This lack of progress denotes missed opportunities in diversifying and scaling up clean energy sources. Now more than ever, it is imperative for São Tomé & Príncipe to break this cycle of stagnation by aggressively pursuing the expansion of solar and nuclear energy infrastructure. By learning from global exemplars and capitalizing on their natural resources, São Tomé & Príncipe can overcome current limitations and enhance both their economic standing and their contributions to global sustainability efforts.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.