In 2022, the state of electricity consumption in São Tomé & Príncipe was characterized by a disparity between the reliance on fossil fuels and the generation of low-carbon energy. With a total electricity consumption of approximately 398 kWh per person, which is merely a fraction of the global average of 3771 kWh per person, the country faces significant challenges. Close to all of São Tomé & Príncipe's electricity comes from fossil energy, meaning the nation's electricity is heavily reliant on sources that contribute to climate change and air pollution. In contrast, low-carbon electricity, which is crucial for sustainable development, accounted for just a small portion of electricity generation. This low consumption level can adversely affect economic development, increase energy insecurity, and limit access to modern amenities that depend on consistent and clean power.

Is Electricity Growing in São Tomé & Príncipe?

Despite global trends towards increased electricity consumption, São Tomé & Príncipe has experienced a decline. The consumption in 2022, at 398 kWh/person, reflects a decrease from its previous peak of 540 kWh/person in 2016. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation fell from a historical high of 69 kWh/person in 2000 to 44 kWh/person in 2022. These downward trends suggest that there have been challenges in scaling up clean energy initiatives effectively within the country. Continued reliance on fossil fuels without adequate development of low-carbon infrastructure is concerning and represents lost opportunities to improve both the energy landscape and environmental footprint.

Suggestions

To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, São Tomé & Príncipe can look towards solar and nuclear energy as viable solutions. For inspiration, the country can draw on successful case studies like China and the United States, which have robust solar and nuclear energy sectors, respectively. Additionally, Brazil's successful harnessing of wind energy is particularly relevant given both nations' geographical affinities. Transitioning towards solar and nuclear energy can provide São Tomé & Príncipe with a sustainable pathway, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and tapping into the abundant solar potential of its climate, while nuclear can provide a stable and efficient base load power capacity. These examples underscore the feasibility and advantages of shifting towards a diversified low-carbon energy portfolio.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in São Tomé & Príncipe, particularly hydroelectric, reflects a longstanding period of stagnation. From the early 2000s onward, there has been no recorded increase in electricity generation from hydroelectric sources, with zero growth from year to year up until 2022. This persistence of unchanged output illuminates a broader issue of underinvestment or lack of development in clean energy technologies in the country. To move forward, reversing these trends by investing in modern energy technologies and drawing lessons from regions successfully leveraging their natural resources should be prioritized. Without such efforts, São Tomé & Príncipe risks being left behind as the world accelerates towards a low-carbon future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade