Electricity in Sierra Leone in 2022

Sierra Leone's electricity consumption in 2022 reflects a challenging situation. The country generated a total of close to none TWh of electricity, with almost all of it coming from hydro power, a clean energy source. However, compared to the global average electricity consumption of 3606 watts per person, Sierra Leone's electricity generation is significantly lower. This low level of electricity generation has wide-ranging effects, hindering economic development, limiting access to essential services like healthcare and education, and impeding quality of life for its citizens. The reliance on low-carbon sources is a positive start, but the overall capacity is insufficient to meet the population's needs.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Sierra Leone can look to the successful strategies implemented by other nations. China has been remarkably successful with both solar and wind power, generating 653 TWh and 950 TWh respectively from these sources. Brazil, another developing nation, has made significant strides in wind power, generating 97 TWh. Learning from these examples, Sierra Leone can prioritize investments in solar and wind energy. The country might also consider exploring nuclear energy, as countries like France, the United States, and South Korea have successfully implemented extensive nuclear programs, generating hundreds of TWh annually. Building infrastructure for these clean energy sources can help Sierra Leone boost its electricity generation sustainably.

History

Historically, low-carbon electricity generation in Sierra Leone has been stagnant. The data shows zero growth in hydroelectric power from 2001 to 2007. There was a minor increase in 2010 with an addition of 0.1 TWh from hydro, but subsequently, these figures did not grow, indicating almost no development from 2011 to 2019. Solar power was introduced in 2017 but did not contribute significantly to electricity generation in the following years. The lack of substantial progress in expanding low-carbon electricity generation highlights the urgent need for Sierra Leone to invest in wind, solar, and possibly nuclear energy, to provide a reliable and sustainable electricity supply for its populace.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources