In 2023, Somalia's electricity consumption demonstrates significant reliance on fossil energy sources, with only a small proportion coming from low-carbon technologies. The total electricity consumed per person is around 23 kWh, with low-carbon sources accounting for just 4 kWh per person. This signifies that more than three-quarters of Somalia's electricity is derived from fossil fuels. When comparing Somalia's electricity consumption to the global average of 3,662 kWh per person, it becomes clear that Somalia's electricity generation is close to none, presenting limitations that could hinder socio-economic development. The low levels of electricity generation might affect the country's ability to support vital services, such as healthcare and education, and restrict industrial growth, posing challenges to improving the living standards and economic prospects for its population.
Data sources used on this page include EIA and Ember. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Somalia?
Currently, electricity generation in Somalia is not experiencing growth, as indicated by a decline in the consumption rate from its previous high of 45 kWh per person in 1993 to 23 kWh per person in 2023. This represents a reduction of about 22 kWh per person over the period, signalling setbacks rather than progress. The generation of low-carbon electricity, particularly from solar and wind, has remained static at around 4 kWh per person since 2022, with no apparent increase in capacity. The stagnation in both total electricity consumption and low-carbon electricity generation suggests an urgent need for Somalia to focus on initiatives that can stimulate growth in this sector, harness cleaner energy sources, and meet the growing demands of its population.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Somalia can leverage its high solar potential by expanding existing solar infrastructure, as solar energy is already contributing to its electricity mix. Drawing inspiration from successful regions, Somalia can look towards countries like India, where solar energy accounts for a significant portion of electricity generation. Additionally, considering examples from states in the United States like California and Texas, which generate substantial electricity from both solar and wind, could provide a blueprint for diversifying Somalia's energy mix with low-carbon sources. Moreover, examining the nuclear energy successes observed in countries like South Korea and the United States could guide Somalia in potentially integrating nuclear energy, leading to a more balanced and sustainable electricity portfolio.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Somalia reveals a flat growth trajectory over recent years, with no significant advancements in solar or wind energy generation from 2016 to 2023. In this period, neither wind nor solar technologies have shown any increase in electricity output. This lack of development is concerning, as achieving a shift toward low-carbon technologies is critical to addressing the global climate crisis and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. It highlights the necessity for proactive policies and investments aimed at initiating substantial projects in solar and potentially nuclear energy, aligning with global trends in decarbonization while fostering progress and resilience in Somalia's energy sector.
