In 2022, Somalia's electricity consumption and generation were notably low, particularly when compared to the global average, which is approximately 3606 watts per person. Most of Somalia's electricity comes from fossil energies, with close to none coming from low-carbon sources like wind or solar power. This reflects a heavy reliance on non-sustainable energy sources, which contribute to climate change and air pollution. The absence of significant clean energy generation means that Somalia's electricity infrastructure is underdeveloped, impacting economic growth, access to modern healthcare, education, and overall quality of life for its citizens.
To boost its low-carbon electricity generation, Somalia can take inspiration from countries that have successfully integrated clean energy into their grids. For instance, China has emerged as a leader in solar and wind power generation, with solar contributing 653 TWh and wind 950 TWh to its electricity mix. Countries like India, which has similar developmental challenges, are also achieving substantial progress in solar and wind energy, with 125 TWh and 92 TWh respectively. Somalia could leverage partnerships and technological exchanges with such nations to establish and scale up its own solar and wind farms, as well as consider incorporating nuclear energy, which is demonstrated to be a reliable and sustainable energy source in many developed nations.
Historically, Somalia has seen little to no growth in low-carbon electricity generation. For several consecutive years between 2016 and 2022, there was no recorded increase in the use of solar or wind power. This stagnation suggests a lack of investment and infrastructure development in clean energy technologies. It's crucial for Somalia to reverse this trend to benefit from sustainable energy sources, which can lead to a more resilient and sustainable electricity grid. Learning from other nations, embracing advancements in technology, and committing to policy changes are essential steps toward a more sustainable energy future.