In 2023, Somalia's electricity consumption remains one of the lowest globally, with only about 23 kWh per person, which is dramatically below the global average of 3781 kWh per person. Almost all of Somalia's electricity is generated using fossil fuels, with close to none coming from low-carbon sources; only 4 kWh per person comes from such green energy options like solar and wind. This significant reliance on fossil energy contributes to pollution and climate change, highlighting an urgent need for cleaner power sources. The low levels of electricity generation limit Somalia's development potential, affecting everything from healthcare and education to local business capabilities, and stifle opportunities for growth and stability.
Is Electricity Growing in Somalia?
When examining the trend, it becomes evident that Somalia's electricity situation has not improved over the years. In fact, the total electricity consumption in 2023 saw a decline compared to the record high from 1993, dropping by 22 kWh per person. Unfortunately, since the previous year, there has been no change in the production of low-carbon electricity, remaining stagnant at 4 kWh per person. This lack of growth in Somalia's clean energy sector is disappointing and points to the pressing need for a focused strategy on boosting electricity generation through sustainable means, particularly as the global demand for electricity continues to climb.
Suggestions
To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Somalia could focus on expanding its solar infrastructure, given its abundant sunlight and existing capacity. Learning from other regions that have successfully harnessed low-carbon technologies could guide this expansion. For example, countries like the People's Republic of China and India have notably augmented their solar energy output to over 1000 TWh and 150 TWh respectively, showcasing their commitment to clean energy growth. Additionally, while nuclear energy infrastructure may seem like a substantial undertaking, looking to nuclear achievements in the United States or France could offer valuable insights, where nuclear contributes significantly to their low-carbon electricity mix. By following these leading regions in solar and nuclear development, Somalia could vastly improve its clean energy output and contribute to a more sustainable future.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Somalia has, unfortunately, been stagnant, with no recorded growth from 2016 onward. Both solar and wind energies have seen zero growth in this period, a glaring indication of the challenges or lack of strategic focus in these areas. In stark contrast to other countries that have aggressively expanded their green energy capacities, Somalia’s low-carbon efforts have remained unchanged, and this stagnation may hinder its progress towards achieving a sustainable, reliable energy system. This calls for an immediate policy and developmental focus to harness the potential of untapped solar and other clean energy technologies.