In 2023, Senegal's electricity consumption presents a reliance on fossil energy, with more than three-quarters of electricity sourced from fossil fuels. In sharp contrast, low-carbon energy sources make up slightly more than a fifth of the electricity mix in the country. Within this clean energy category, wind power generates almost 9%, while solar power contributes nearly 7%. Additionally, hydropower and biofuels make up roughly 5%. Some electricity is also imported, accounting for about 6% of the total. The limited role of clean energy highlights a clear opportunity for expansion, as transitioning away from fossil fuels is vital for reducing climate change-related risks and improving air quality in the region.

Is Electricity Growing in Senegal?

In terms of electricity growth, Senegal is experiencing a positive trend. The country's per capita electricity consumption in 2023 reached 472 kWh, indicating a modest increase from the previous year, which was 453 kWh per person. This uptick, albeit slight, shows an encouraging path towards greater electricity accessibility. However, low-carbon electricity generation did not follow the same growth trajectory. It experienced a small decline, dropping from 99 kWh per person in 2022 to 97 kWh in 2023. This decrease in clean electricity generation is concerning, given the growing importance of sustainable energy solutions for both economic development and environmental protection.

Suggestions

To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Senegal can learn from regions that have successfully harnessed solar, wind, and nuclear energy. For instance, France and Slovakia obtain over 60% of their electricity from nuclear energy, highlighting the potential of this reliable clean energy source. Meanwhile, Denmark showcases the effectiveness of wind energy, with more than half of its electricity coming from this source. Additionally, Nevada’s success in solar energy, generating 35% of its electricity, serves as an inspiring model for solar expansion in sunny regions like Senegal. By investing in nuclear, solar, and wind energy, Senegal can diversify its electricity mix, reduce its carbon footprint, and ensure a more sustainable energy future.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in Senegal has seen gradual developments over the last two decades, with a slow increase in hydropower during the early 2000s, marked by occasional growth and some stagnation. Significant strides were made in solar energy from 2017, with incremental increases in subsequent years. Similarly, wind energy development began around 2020, with steady growth observed annually until 2022. These advancements indicate a positive trajectory toward a more sustainable electricity grid, though the rate of change calls for greater structural investments to accelerate the deployment of clean energy technologies, particularly solar and nuclear, ensuring a shift towards a greener electricity landscape in the years to come.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade