Electricity in Djibouti in 2023
In 2023, Djibouti's electricity consumption reveals that a vast majority, more than three-quarters, of its electricity comes from external sources or net imports, while local production is significantly lower. Almost a fifth of the electricity consumed in the country stems from fossil fuel sources, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Clean energy, although present, makes up less than a tenth of Djibouti's total electricity, with wind energy comprising the entirety of this low-carbon segment. The reliance on fossil fuels and imports indicates a critical need for the country to invest in local low-carbon electricity generation sources to improve energy security and reduce environmental impact.
Is Electricity Growing in Djibouti?
Electricity consumption in Djibouti in 2023 has slightly declined compared to previous years, as highlighted by the decrease in per-person electricity consumption to 616 kWh, down from a peak of 633 kWh in 2021. This decline of 17 kWh per person might reflect stagnating or reducing access or efficiency in electricity use, which is concerning. Similarly, the generation of low-carbon electricity saw a small decrease to 61 kWh per person from a previous high of 62 kWh in 2021. The decrease in low-carbon electricity generation underscores a need for further investment in clean energy technologies to boost sustainable electricity production for the country.
Suggestions
Djibouti stands to learn a great deal from the successes of other countries that have excelled in low-carbon energy generation. For instance, countries like Denmark and Iowa have harnessed the power of wind to contribute significantly to their electricity grids, generating 57% and 62% of their electricity from wind energy, respectively. Nuclear energy also presents an opportunity for Djibouti, given its proven track record in countries like France and Slovakia where it accounts for major portions of their electricity, 69% and 64% respectively. By prioritizing solar and nuclear energy development, Djibouti can diversify its energy portfolio, reduce reliance on imported and fossil-based electricity, and align with global efforts to counter climate change.
History
Looking at the historical trends, Djibouti's low-carbon electricity, particularly from wind energy, experienced incremental growth in recent years. In 2021, Djibouti added an additional 0.1 TWh of wind energy compared to the previous year, highlighting a positive move towards sustainable energy development. However, the momentum seemed to have stalled as there was no recorded growth in wind energy generation in 2022 and 2023. This stagnation is disheartening and emphasizes the urgent need for more ambitious policies and investments in low-carbon technologies to ensure continuous growth in sustainable electricity generation and meet future energy demands.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.