Currently, Somalia's electricity consumption is quite modest, with a total usage of 23 kWh per person in 2023. The vast majority of this electricity comes from fossil fuels, while only a small portion, around 4 kWh per person, is sourced from low-carbon or clean energy types like solar and wind. In contrast to the global average of 3781 kWh per person, Somalia's electricity consumption is significantly lower, highlighting a stark disparity. This limited electricity generation can hinder development and economic growth, restrict educational and technological advancements, and impair overall quality of life. Access to more reliable and increased electricity, particularly from low-carbon sources, could vastly improve living standards and support sustainable economic progress.
Is Electricity Growing in Somalia?
The trends in Somalia's electricity consumption show a concerning downward trajectory. While the current consumption stands at 23 kWh per person, this is a decrease from the highest recorded consumption of 45 kWh per person back in 1993. This decrease of 22 kWh indicates an alarming decline in electricity availability over the decades. Meanwhile, there has been no increase in low-carbon electricity generation, remaining stagnant at 4 kWh per person over recent years. This stagnation is disappointing, especially when considering the growing need for clean electricity solutions to combat climate change and support sustainable development.
Suggestions
To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Somalia can focus on expanding existing solar energy infrastructure, as it has been relatively effective within the country. By learning from countries and regions that have successfully increased their clean electricity output, Somalia could significantly benefit. For instance, regions such as China and the United States have made impressive strides in solar and wind energy development, generating 834 TWh and 303 TWh from solar, respectively, as well as 992 TWh and 453 TWh from wind. Additionally, looking towards countries with well-established nuclear sectors like France and the United States might also provide a roadmap for diversification. Emulating these successful strategies in leveraging both solar and nuclear energy could markedly enhance Somalia’s low-carbon electricity generation, alleviating dependence on fossil fuels and mitigating environmental impacts.
History
Historically, Somalia's journey with low-carbon electricity generation has seen little change, with reported growth rates of zero across both solar and wind energy types from 2016 to 2023. Despite an opportunity-rich landscape, there has been stagnation in the past eighteen years in advancing these technologies. This lack of progress in clean energy development is particularly discouraging, given Somalia's solar potential and the global emphasis on sustainable development. By prioritizing investments and policy support in solar and nuclear power, Somalia can set the stage for a transformative leap in its clean electricity output, ensuring energy security and sustainable growth for future generations.