Electricity in Somalia in 2021
The electricity consumption in Somalia currently stands at a minimal 2.74 watts/person, significantly below the global average of 412 watts/person. A considerable majority of this small amount, approximately 2.48 watts/person, is generated from fossil fuels, whereas low-carbon or clean energy contributes only about 0.27 watts/person. This breaks down further into 0.2 watts/person from solar energy and close to none (0.07 watts/person) from wind energy. This starkly low level of electricity generation hints at potential adverse impacts such as inadequate power supply for basic infrastructural facilities and possibly, hindrance of economic development due to energy deficiencies. It's also essential to note that Somalia neither imports nor exports electricity from or to other regions, which places the onus of power generation entirely within the country.
Suggestions
Reflecting on the low carbon electricity generation scenario in other countries, a possible path for Somalia to increase its clean energy output is apparent. By examining comparable nations and their success in generating low-carbon energy, valuable insights can be gained. For instance, Uruguay has generated almost 160 watts/person with wind energy, a clean, sustainable, and readily available resource in many parts of Somalia. Similarly, Australia demonstrates that solar energy is a viable option with its 147 watts/person generation, which Somalia could emulate given its abundant year-round sunlight. Additionally, while nuclear energy is not typically considered in regions like Somalia due to resource, infrastructure and security implications, global examples such as Bulgaria and Slovenia, which produce over 270 watts/person and 300 watts/person respectively, suggest that with international support, it could become a feasible low-carbon solution.
History
Looking back at Somalia's history of low-carbon electricity production, the figures remain stagnant, depicting a clear crisis in power generation diversification. From 2016 to 2021, neither solar nor wind energy showed any increase in electricity generation, remaining at a standstill. This marks a period of inaction in terms of exploring sustainable, green energy solutions. Despite the negligible role of low-carbon sources in Somalia's electricity mix, the global environment urgently demands a shift from fossil fuels to more sustainable alternatives. Somalia's untapped wind and solar potentials present opportunities for such a transition, paving the way towards a clean, low-carbon energy future.