In Sub-Saharan Africa, electricity consumption in 2022 revealed a predominant reliance on fossil fuels, with coal accounting for about 40% of the total electricity generation and a combined total of over 60% from all fossil fuels. In stark contrast, low-carbon sources comprised slightly more than 37% of electricity generation, demonstrating a significant contribution from hydropower at approximately 29%. Wind, solar, nuclear, and geothermal energy sources contributed modestly, around 1-3% each, underscoring the potential for enhancing low-carbon electricity avenues. It is critical for the region to pivot towards clean energy solutions given the environmental impacts of fossil fuel usage, including climate change and air pollution challenges.
Is Electricity Growing in Sub-Saharan Africa?
The state of electricity growth in Sub-Saharan Africa in recent years has unfortunately seen stagnation. According to data from 2022, the total electricity consumption per capita and low-carbon electricity generation per capita remain unchanged from the 2012 levels, highlighting no growth over the decade. This stagnation signifies missed opportunities to increase electricity access and improve living standards across the region. Given the pressing need for clean electricity to mitigate climate-related impacts and support economic growth, it’s disappointing that there hasn’t been progress in expanding both overall and low-carbon electricity availability.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Sub-Saharan Africa could draw inspiration from various regions adept in clean energy production. Countries like France and Slovakia demonstrate the potential of nuclear energy, accounting for more than half of their respective electricity supply. African nations could replicate such successful models by investing in nuclear energy infrastructure. Similarly, Denmark and Iowa exemplify significant reliance on wind energy, showing the potential for scaling up wind power projects. Additionally, countries like Chile illustrate the impact of solar power, generating over 20% of their electricity from this source. Sub-Saharan Africa, with abundant sunshine and wind resources, could significantly increase its clean energy capacity by emulating these models to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and improve access to sustainable electricity.
History
Reflecting on the history of low-carbon electricity in Sub-Saharan Africa, the past few decades have seen a varied trajectory. In the 2010s, hydropower experienced notable ebbs and flows, with some years like 2014 and 2018 witnessing significant increases, while others, such as 2015, saw slight declines. Wind energy saw gradual growth, notably in 2015 and 2021. However, nuclear energy showed a concerning decline in some years, notably in 2018 and 2020, albeit with intermittent upticks in other years like 2016. This fluctuation suggests a need for more stable investment and commitment to nuclear energy infrastructure. Solar power began to make its mark in the latter years, particularly in 2015 and 2021, indicating the region’s potential to harness the abundant solar resources available. As we reflect on these patterns, it is clear there's a substantial opportunity to stabilize and accelerate the growth of clean electricity to meet the developmental goals of the region.