As of 2023, electricity consumption in Sierra Leone stands at a modest 25 kWh per person. When compared to the global average of 3649 kWh per person, it is evident that the country consumes only a tiny fraction of electricity in comparison. Most of this electricity is derived from low-carbon sources, with clean energy accounting for nearly all of the total electricity consumed. This is a positive indication of Sierra Leone's commitment to sustainable energy practices. However, the overall low level of electricity generation highlights potential challenges for national development, as electricity is a fundamental driver for improving living standards, fostering industrial activities, and enhancing digital connectivity. The scarcity of electricity could slow economic growth and impede the country’s ability to leverage technology, including AI, for advancements.
Data sources used on this page include EIA and Ember. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Sierra Leone?
The question of growth in electricity in Sierra Leone reveals a worrisome trend of declining consumption from earlier records. The latest total electricity consumption is 25 kWh per person, a significant drop from the record 40 kWh per person noted in 2018. This reduction of 15 kWh per person underscores the pressing need to revitalize electricity generation to meet growing demands. Furthermore, low-carbon electricity generation has also decreased, with 2023 figures recording 24 kWh per person, down by 8 kWh from the highest record in 2011. This negative trajectory in clean energy generation is concerning and warrants immediate intervention to reverse the decline and set the nation on a path toward increasing clean energy capacity.
Suggestions
To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Sierra Leone could draw inspiration from regions that have successfully harnessed solar and wind power, as well as nuclear energy. The People's Republic of China, for example, has made remarkable strides in solar energy, producing an impressive 1117 TWh, while India’s solar output of 157 TWh also illustrates significant progress that Sierra Leone could emulate. Additionally, countries like France and Canada have long relied on nuclear power as a substantial component of their clean energy mix, producing 369 TWh and 85 TWh, respectively. Embracing both solar and nuclear technologies would not only boost Sierra Leone’s electricity generation but also fortify its energy independence and support sustainable economic growth.
History
Historically, Sierra Leone's low-carbon electricity landscape has been overwhelmingly dominated by hydroelectric power, with incremental increases noted over the years. From 2005 to 2017, hydro electricity remained stagnant, with notable improvements only in 2010 and 2011 and then again in 2018, each time with an increase of 0.1 TWh. However, solar energy began to appear in the national grid in 2021, although thus far it has not contributed additional output in terms of energy capacity. As Sierra Leone moves forward, there is a clear opportunity to embrace other low-carbon energy options to diversify and enhance its electricity supply, ensuring the nation joins the global movement toward environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
