As of 2023, Cameroon’s electricity consumption is characterized by the dominance of low-carbon sources. Hydropower contributes the majority of this clean energy output, producing approximately 5.3 TWh, while biofuels add a less significant fraction. In total, more than half of the electricity generated in Cameroon is derived from low-carbon sources. In contrast, fossil fuel-based electricity, primarily from gas, makes up roughly 3.0 TWh annually. When comparing Cameroon’s per capita electricity consumption, which stands at 296 kWh/person, to the global average of 3649 kWh/person, it becomes apparent that the nation significantly lags behind. This limited electricity generation may hinder economic development, restrict access to modern amenities, and exacerbate energy poverty in the country as the demand continues to increase.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Cameroon?
Recent trends in Cameroon’s electricity sector indicate a decline rather than growth. The latest electricity consumption level is 296 kWh/person, experiencing a reduction from the 2015 level of 352 kWh/person, showing a decline of 56 kWh/person. Additionally, low-carbon electricity generation has also decreased, with the latest figures at 188 kWh/person, down from 258 kWh/person in 2006, representing a reduction of 71 kWh/person. This regression is concerning, as it contrasts with the pressing need for increased electricity generation to meet both current and future demands, particularly with the global shift towards clean, sustainable energy solutions.
Suggestions
To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Cameroon can look towards successful regions that have excelled in clean energy deployment. For instance, Brazil efficiently utilizes wind power, generating 114 TWh, providing a useful blueprint for Cameroon to harness its wind energy potential. Furthermore, the significant advancements in solar energy production by countries like India, which generates 153 TWh of solar electricity, underscore the feasibility and benefits of expanding solar infrastructure in Cameroon’s sunny climate. Embracing nuclear energy could also be transformative; with examples such as France’s nuclear generation of 371 TWh showing the long-term sustainability and capacity benefits of nuclear power. By considering these proven strategies, Cameroon can significantly augment its clean electricity generation capacity and secure a more reliable and sustainable power future.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Cameroon highlights a fluctuating yet predominantly positive trajectory, particularly in hydroelectricity. During the 1980s and 1990s, hydropower consistently increased, with increments of around 0.2 TWh yearly in several instances, reflecting steady growth. However, sporadic declines occurred, such as the decrease by 0.3 TWh in 2002, which was thankfully short-lived. The early 2000s saw minor declines in hydroelectricity, but this was countered by brief ventures into biofuels in 2006. Most notably, in 2017, a significant hydroelectric boost of 0.7 TWh was recorded, indicative of targeted growth efforts. Despite these fluctuations, the reliance and focus on hydropower demonstrate Cameroon’s commitment to increasing its low-carbon footprint, although the recent dip in low-carbon electricity generation in 2023 is a reminder of the need for focused investment and development for sustainable progress.
