In 2023, Equatorial Guinea's electricity consumption is primarily driven by fossil fuels, with gas making up more than two-thirds of the total electricity production. Specifically, gas accounts for approximately 68% of electricity generation, reflecting a heavy reliance on non-clean sources. On the other hand, low-carbon or clean energy sources contribute to just over 31% of the total electricity production, with hydropower being the sole contributor in this category. The country's energy landscape is dominated by fossil energy, which unfortunately comes with environmental and health drawbacks such as carbon emissions and pollution, underscoring a significant opportunity for progress toward clean energy alternatives.
Data sources used on this page include Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Equatorial Guinea?
Electricity consumption in Equatorial Guinea appears to have declined over the years. In 2023, the average electricity consumption per person stood at 850 kWh, which is a noticeable drop of 359 kWh compared to the previous record in 2014. Low-carbon electricity generation has seen a reduction as well, with its current level being 265 kWh per person, down by 125 kWh from its peak in 2015. This decline is troubling in a time when demand for electricity is naturally expected to rise due to various technological advancements and the electrification of different sectors. To meet future needs sustainably, it becomes crucial to focus on increasing clean electricity generation.
Suggestions
Looking forward, Equatorial Guinea can increase its low-carbon electricity generation by considering successful examples from other regions. For instance, Denmark and several US states such as Iowa and South Dakota have achieved remarkable success with wind power, contributing between 58% and 60% of their electricity from wind. Similarly, solar energy offers a viable path, as seen in regions like Nevada and Chile, where solar accounts for around a third and a quarter of their electricity, respectively. Additionally, nuclear power presents a reliable option, with countries like France having successfully integrated it into their energy mix, making up 67% of their electricity. These examples highlight that by embracing nuclear and solar energy, along with strategic investments in wind power, Equatorial Guinea can significantly enhance its green energy production and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
History
Historically, Equatorial Guinea's low-carbon electricity generation has largely remained stagnant, with very minimal increases or fluctuations over the years. Starting in the early 1990s through the early 2000s, the country experienced neither growth nor decline in hydropower production. Some fluctuations occurred in the 2010s, marked by minor increases in 2012, 2013, and 2015 followed by slight declines in subsequent years. Disappointingly, more recent years have shown no notable increase or innovation in the low-carbon realm, with hydropower generation holding steady at minimal levels from 2020 to 2023. This history reflects an untapped potential and an urgent need for a strategic shift towards expanding clean energy infrastructure, including nuclear and solar energy, to truly transform Equatorial Guinea's electricity landscape.
