In 2022, electricity consumption in São Tomé & Príncipe stood at roughly 398 kWh per person, which is a small fraction of the global average of 3412 kWh per person. Low-carbon electricity sources contributed 44 kWh per person, highlighting a reliance primarily on fossil-based energy. This low level of clean energy is concerning given the urgent need to mitigate climate change and reduce air pollution. The limited electricity generation can have significant consequences, such as hampering economic growth and restricting access to modern technological conveniences, education, and healthcare services that rely heavily on electricity.

Data sources used on this page include Ember. More about data sources →

Is Electricity Growing in São Tomé & Príncipe?

The trend for electricity consumption in São Tomé & Príncipe is currently not on an upward trajectory. The most recent data for 2022 indicates a drop to 398 kWh per person from a previous high of 540 kWh per person in 2016. Simultaneously, low-carbon electricity generation has also decreased from a peak of 69 kWh per person in 2000 to just 44 kWh per person in 2022. This decline in both overall and clean electricity is worrisome as it indicates a retreat from a more sustainable energy path and could imply infrastructural or policy setbacks reducing the potential for favorable developmental impacts tied to electrification.

Suggestions

To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, São Tomé & Príncipe can look to regions that successfully employ solar and nuclear energy. Brazil, as a similar developing country, demonstrates significant potential with 113 TWh from wind and 79 TWh from solar electricity. Learning from such examples can facilitate scaling clean energy solutions—specifically solar and wind, in tandem with exploring the potential for nuclear energy. Implementing policies encouraging investment in these technologies can drive transformation toward a more sustainable and economically viable electricity landscape, ensuring cleaner air and a better quality of life for its citizens.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in São Tomé & Príncipe shows a stagnant pattern in the past two decades, with no recorded increases in hydroelectric generation from 2002 to 2022. This stagnation across two decades is deeply concerning and underscores the need for renewed energy policies and investments. Without variation in these records, São Tomé & Príncipe risks being left behind in the global shift towards sustainable electric systems, impacting its development and resilience against climate-related issues. Therefore, it is crucial for the island nation to actively expand its low-carbon electricity generation capabilities, especially solar and nuclear.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade