Electricity in Sierra Leone in 2022

As of 2022, Sierra Leone's electricity consumption remains significantly lower than the global average, which stands at 3606 watts per person. With almost no domestic electricity generation from either low-carbon or fossil energy sources, Sierra Leone is largely dependent on energy imports to meet its demand. Close to none of the electricity consumed is generated from clean energy, which starkly contrasts with the global trend towards greener electricity sources. The low levels of electricity generation in Sierra Leone hinder economic development, limit access to modern technology, and contribute to persistent energy poverty, creating a barrier to the country's socio-economic progress.

Suggestions

To increase the share of low-carbon electricity generation, Sierra Leone can learn from countries that have successfully harnessed wind and solar power on a large scale. Notably, countries like India and Brazil have made significant strides in increasing their solar and wind capacities, with India generating around 125 TWh from solar and 92 TWh from wind, and Brazil generating 97 TWh from wind. By deploying technology and infrastructure investments similar to these nations, Sierra Leone can tap into its abundant solar and wind resources. Furthermore, nuclear energy offers a stable, low-carbon alternative for Sierra Leone to explore, modeled after countries like South Korea and Ukraine, which have expanded their nuclear energy production substantially.

History

Historically, Sierra Leone's low-carbon electricity generation has seen little change. Beginning in 2001 and continuing into the mid-2010s, hydroelectricity was the sole contributor to low-carbon electricity, but with virtually no increase during these years except for a negligible rise of 0.1 TWh in 2010. Solar energy made an appearance in 2017 but without any notable increase in generation. Over the decades, the persistent stagnation of low-carbon electricity generation signifies an urgent need for strategic intervention. Modernizing the infrastructure to facilitate clean energy technologies can transform Sierra Leone's energy sector, bringing substantial benefits to the national economy and environment.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources