Electricity in Benin in 2023
In 2023, electricity consumption in Benin stands at approximately 130 kWh per person, which translates to an alarmingly low figure of less than 4% of the global average of 3412 kWh/person. The majority of this electricity consumption comes from fossil fuels, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and impacting climate change. Low-carbon sources contribute only a tiny fraction—close to none—of Benin's electricity needs, highlighted by the fact that only around 2 kWh per person is sourced from clean energy. This low level of electricity generation can stunt economic growth, limit educational opportunities, and constrain healthcare advancements, thereby impacting the overall quality of life and development prospects for the people of Benin.
Data sources used on this page include Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Benin?
Examining whether electricity consumption is growing in Benin reveals a concerning trend. The latest figures show a slight decline in per capita electricity use compared to the historical record in 2021, dropping from 136 to 130 kWh/person. However, there is a slight improvement in low-carbon electricity generation, albeit from a very low baseline. The low-carbon electricity figure has increased from 1 to 2 kWh/person over the same period. While this growth in clean energy generation is modest, it offers a glimmer of hope that Benin is beginning to take steps towards a more sustainable energy future. Nonetheless, the overall decrease in total electricity consumption is disappointing and necessitates urgent action to reverse this trend.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Benin should explore opportunities in nuclear and solar energy, drawing lessons from successful regions that have substantially increased their clean energy output. Countries like China and India have made significant investments in solar energy, generating 1170 TWh and 166 TWh, respectively. Similarly, regions like Illinois in the United States have embraced nuclear power, producing almost 100 TWh. By investing in solar and nuclear technologies, Benin can develop a stable, reliable, and environmentally friendly electricity supply. Implementing policies that support these technologies can foster partnerships with established nuclear and solar players, leveraging expertise and resources to kick-start Benin's green energy transition.
History
Historically, Benin's forays into low-carbon electricity have been minimal, evidenced by the static nature of its clean energy records. Throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, hydroelectric and biofuel technologies stagnated with zero growth. Between 2015 and 2023, there was no significant movement in solar or hydro development, keeping the low-carbon figures relatively steady at near zero. Such inertia in developing sustainable electricity sources demands urgent corrective measures to ensure substantial growth. Expanding nuclear and solar projects would not only diversify Benin's energy mix but also facilitate the nation's advancement towards becoming a leader in low-carbon electricity generation.
