In 2023, Burundi's electricity consumption was extremely low, at just 36 kWh per person, which is significantly below the global average of 3649 kWh per person. More than half of the electricity consumed in Burundi came from clean energy sources, indicating a reliance primarily on low-carbon options. This stark contrast between Burundi's consumption and the global average highlights significant developmental hurdles; low electricity availability hampers industrial growth, limits technological advancement, and potentially stifles economic development and education. Without adequate electricity, the country might struggle to meet various socio-economic needs, including healthcare, education, and a productive workforce.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and Enerdata. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Burundi?
Unfortunately, electricity consumption in Burundi has declined recently, dropping from a previous high of 41 kWh per person in 2019 to the current level of 36 kWh per person. This five-unit decline underscores a worrying trend, particularly as the most recent low-carbon electricity generation also experienced a decrease to 20 kWh per person, from a previous record of 21 kWh per person in 2021. The decline signifies challenges in sustaining energy production, potentially due to infrastructure, investment, and policy constraints. Reversing this decline should be a focal point for Burundi, given the critical role that electricity plays in modern development.
Suggestions
To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Burundi can learn from regions that have successfully expanded their clean energy portfolios. Countries like India and Brazil have harnessed solar and wind energy extensively, with India producing 157 TWh from solar and Brazil achieving 115 TWh from wind. By focusing on solar energy, which is abundant in the region, Burundi could leverage sun-rich environments to significantly increase its clean energy share. Additionally, exploring nuclear energy could offer a reliable and scalable solution, drawing inspiration from nations like the United Arab Emirates, which generated 32 TWh from nuclear sources. By adopting a diversified approach focusing on clean, sustainable energy forms such as solar and nuclear, Burundi can potentially reverse its electricity generation woes and align itself with green development pathways.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Burundi, primarily reliant on hydroelectric power, shows a rare increase in electricity generation. Since the early 1990s, hydroelectric generation figures remained unchanged, with no increase in output recorded from year to year until a small gain of 0.1 TWh occurred in 2001 and later in 2017 and 2021. Additionally, biofuel utilization also saw a minor increase by the year 2021. While these increments indicate some progress, the lack of substantial growth underscores the need for more aggressive strategies and investments to diversify Burundi's energy portfolio, particularly with expanded solar and potential nuclear initiatives being highly encouraged. Such steps could mark a significant shift for Burundi to build a more sustainable and resilient energy future.
