Electricity in Sierra Leone in 2022

In 2022, electricity consumption in Sierra Leone remains quite challenging, with more than half of the electricity coming from fossil energy sources like diesel and natural gas, which contribute significantly to climate change and air pollution. Low-carbon energy sources, particularly hydroelectric power, account for close to none of Sierra Leone's total electricity generation. When we compare this to the global average electricity consumption of 3638 watts per person, Sierra Leone's electricity consumption is a small fraction of this number. The low levels of electricity generation severely limit the country's economic growth, education, and healthcare services, and hinder potential improvements in the living standards of its citizens.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Sierra Leone can look to countries like Brazil and India, which have successfully expanded their wind and solar energy capacities, respectively. Brazil's efforts in harnessing over 100 TWh from wind energy serve as powerful motivation for Sierra Leone to explore its own wind resources, while India’s success with almost 130 TWh from solar energy can offer insights into effective strategies, such as creating supportive government policies and securing international investments. Additionally, it is imperative for Sierra Leone to consider introducing nuclear energy into its energy mix, as seen in countries like South Africa, where they've tapped into both solar and nuclear sources to bolster their electricity supply. These approaches provide a roadmap for Sierra Leone to enhance its low-carbon energy share and move towards a cleaner energy future.

History

Historically, Sierra Leone’s low-carbon electricity generation was largely stagnant, with hydroelectric power remaining unchanged at 0 TWh throughout most of the early 2000s and the years that followed, with only a minuscule increase of 0.1 TWh in 2010. Solar energy made a small appearance in 2017 but did not result in any significant boost in electricity supply. This consistently low development in low-carbon energy signifies missed opportunities for diversification and scaling of sustainable energy practices. For Sierra Leone to break from these past trends, it must invest in low-carbon technologies and consider international best practices in low-carbon energy development, particularly in regions similar to its own. This encapsulates the potential for significant advancements in sustainable energy capacities.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources