In 2023, Senegal's electricity consumption is largely dominated by fossil fuels, accounting for almost three-quarters of total generation. Specifically, fossil energy makes up approximately 74% of the electricity mix. On the other hand, low-carbon sources, which include wind, solar, hydropower, and biofuels, contribute about 20% altogether. Solar and wind alone are responsible for around 15% of the total, demonstrating some progress in diversifying energy sources. The remainder of the electricity supply, slightly under 6%, comes from net imports. This distribution highlights a critical reliance on fossil fuels, with a pressing need to expand clean energy contributions to mitigate harmful environmental impacts.
Data sources used on this page include Ember, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Senegal?
Regarding electricity growth, Senegal has shown a positive trend in the latest year. Total electricity consumption in 2023 has increased to 472 kWh per person from a previous high of 453 kWh per person in 2022. This increment of 20 kWh per person is a positive development, suggesting a rising demand and consumption possibly driven by economic and infrastructural growth. However, the growth in low-carbon electricity generation has not kept pace, with a slight decline from 99 kWh per person to the current 97 kWh per person. This stagnation in clean energy generation is concerning, especially in light of the increasing total demand, indicating an opportunity to substantially bolster low-carbon capacity to meet future consumption needs sustainably.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Senegal can draw inspiration from regions that excel in solar and wind energy, as well as consider the nuclear pathway. For instance, countries like Denmark and Iowa have leveraged wind energy to produce around 60% of their electricity. Similarly, solar power contributes significant shares in regions such as Nevada at 33%, and Lebanon at 31%. Additionally, the nuclear example of countries like France, where 70% of electricity is generated from nuclear, demonstrates the potential of this clean, reliable power source. By prioritizing the development of solar and wind infrastructures alongside considering nuclear energy for a stable baseload, Senegal can significantly increase its low-carbon electricity generation, diminishing its reliance on fossil fuels and promoting a greener future.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Senegal has seen modest developments over the decades. In the early 2000s, hydropower experienced some growth with slight increases observed until 2006, after which growth stagnated until some regression in 2007. The period from 2012 onwards has witnessed the introduction of solar and wind, with solar showing notable progress in 2019 and 2021. Wind energy contributions began in 2020, with steady increments up to 2022. These developments, although promising, reflect a slow pace of transition to low-carbon sources. Moving forward, accelerating the integration of solar and wind, while considering the establishment of a nuclear energy sector, would not only contribute to energy security but also align with climate goals by reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
