In 2023, electricity consumption in Sierra Leone is markedly low, with each person using about 25 kWh. This is just a fraction compared to the global average of 3781 kWh per person, highlighting the country's severe underutilization of electricity. Nearly all of Sierra Leone's electricity comes from low-carbon sources, predominantly hydro, with only minimal reliance on fossil fuels. The very low levels of electricity generation can have wide-ranging effects, including limiting economic development, impacting educational opportunities, and reducing quality of life. As the world becomes more electrified, especially with advancements in AI and technology, the need for more robust electricity generation in Sierra Leone becomes critical.
Is Electricity Growing in Sierra Leone?
Despite attempts to ramp up its electricity generation, Sierra Leone has seen a worrying decline since its peak in 2018 when the consumption was 36 kWh per person. As of 2023, there has been a decrease of 11 kWh per person from this peak level. Low-carbon electricity, nearly all hydro, also saw a minor drop from its highest level of 25 kWh per person in 2019 to 24 kWh per person in 2023. This stagnation and decline are worrisome as they indicate that the country is not moving forward during a period when a global transition towards enhanced and sustainable electricity is essential.
Suggestions
For Sierra Leone to boost its low-carbon electricity generation, it can learn from successful regions that have significant investments in solar and nuclear energy. Countries like the People's Republic of China and the United States have harnessed wind and solar energy on a massive scale, generating 1122 TWh and 1025 TWh from wind and solar, respectively. These regions demonstrate the potential benefits of investing in sustainable energy solutions. By focusing on solar, a resource that can be abundant in Sierra Leone, and investing in nuclear energy, Sierra Leone can shift towards a cleaner and more energy-secure future, reducing the negative impacts of fossil fuels such as climate change and air pollution.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Sierra Leone has been largely stagnant, with minimal changes over the decades. Since the early 2000s, hydroelectric power saw no significant changes until 2010 when a minor increase occurred. Solar made its first appearance in 2017 but did not contribute to any substantial growth. The lack of diversification and investment in expanding low-carbon energy sources is concerning. With proper investments and strategic planning, particularly in solar and nuclear energy, Sierra Leone can hope to revitalize its low-carbon electricity generation and promote sustainable development.