In Sierra Leone as of 2023, electricity consumption is at a remarkably low level, averaging just about 25 kWh per person annually. The current consumption is significantly lower than the global average of approximately 3,649 kWh per person. Almost all of this electricity, roughly 24 kWh per person, comes from low-carbon sources, with clean energy playing a crucial role in Sierra Leone's current electricity landscape. The reliance on clean energy like solar and hydropower is promising, yet the overall consumption is quite minimal compared to global standards. The lack of adequate electricity generation impacts various sectors and impedes economic growth. With limited electricity access, there is a constraint on infrastructure development, healthcare services, and educational opportunities, impacting the quality of life and economic prospects.
Data sources used on this page include EIA and Ember. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Sierra Leone?
Looking at the electricity consumption over recent years, there has been a noticeable decline. The previous record, set in 2018, was higher, sitting at 36 kWh per person. The decrease indicates an 11 kWh per person drop in total electricity consumption by 2023. Similarly, for low-carbon electricity, the numbers have slightly decreased from the 2019 record of 25 kWh per person to 24 kWh in 2023. This diminishing pattern is concerning as it contradicts the trend towards greater electrification seen elsewhere in the world. The data suggests that the country has experienced a setback in its electricity consumption, which might hinder future development if not addressed promptly.
Suggestions
For Sierra Leone to effectively enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, it can draw valuable lessons from successful regions. Countries like People's Republic of China and India demonstrate significant successes in solar power, generating 1119 TWh and 153 TWh respectively, while states like California and Texas have made substantial strides in both solar and wind energy. Additionally, the United States, France, and South Korea have significant nuclear energy generation, showcasing the potential to integrate nuclear power as a viable and stable energy source. Sierra Leone can focus on expanding solar and possibly nuclear energy to scale up its clean electricity generation. Emulating such strategies could lead to an increase in Sierra Leone's electricity availability, driving economic growth and reducing dependency on fossil fuels.
History
Regarding the historical context of low-carbon electricity in Sierra Leone, the data primarily highlights hydroelectric developments over the decades. From the early 2000s up until 2019, there have been negligible changes in hydroelectric power, with the only notable increase occurring in 2010 by 0.1 TWh. More recently, solar energy made an appearance in 2017, but it disappointingly showed no increase by 2023. This stagnation in low-carbon development reflects an urgency to accelerate infrastructural improvements and exploration of varied energy sources for sustainable growth. It is essential to break this pattern of stagnation and implement robust policies focused on expanding clean energy capabilities to meet future electricity demands.
