The current state of electricity consumption in Equatorial Guinea predominantly relies on fossil fuels, with gas making up a significant portion. In 2023, more than two-thirds of the electricity generation comes from fossil fuels, primarily gas, accounting for approximately 69%. On the other hand, low-carbon energy types contribute to a little over 31% of the electricity generation, all of which is generated from hydropower. This highlights a long-standing reliance on gas and a notable but limited contribution from hydropower in Equatorial Guinea's electricity mix.
Data sources used on this page include Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Equatorial Guinea?
Despite the essential role of electricity in fostering development, Equatorial Guinea has experienced a concerning decline in per capita electricity consumption. In 2023, the electricity consumption fell to 850 kWh/person, a significant drop compared to the historic high of 1,209 kWh/person recorded in 2014. This reduction of around 359 kWh/person signals a troublesome trend, indicating stagnation or even decline in electricity access and utilization. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation also witnessed a decline from its previous peak of 390 kWh/person in 2015 to 265 kWh/person in 2023, further highlighting the country's challenges in expanding clean energy access.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Equatorial Guinea could draw inspiration from successful regions globally. For instance, countries like France and Slovakia have achieved impressive levels of nuclear energy integration, accounting for more than 65% of their electricity generation. This emphasizes the potential for nuclear energy to serve as a reliable and substantial portion of sustainable electricity generation. Wind energy, prominently utilized in Denmark and several US states like Iowa and South Dakota, shows promising results, accounting for more than half of these regions' electricity generation. Solar energy also presents a viable option for Equatorial Guinea, given the examples set by countries like Chile and states like California, where solar power represents a significant share of electricity generation. Embracing both nuclear and solar energy could thus significantly increase sustainable electricity generation in Equatorial Guinea and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.
History
Historically, Equatorial Guinea's low-carbon electricity generation has been dominated solely by hydropower, which, until recently, experienced moderate increases. From the 1990s up until 2015, there were gradual and small improvements in hydroelectric output, with small increments in years such as 2012 and 2013. However, a stagnation and occasional decline, as seen in the years 2017 and 2019, raise concerns about the ability to maintain consistent growth in low-carbon electricity. This historical pattern underscores the necessity for Equatorial Guinea to diversify and expand its green energy portfolio beyond hydropower to include solar and nuclear, laying the foundation for a brighter, sustainable future.
