In 2023, the state of electricity consumption in Cameroon is marked by a distinct reliance on hydropower, which accounts for more than half of its total electricity generation. This is part of the 8.3 TWh of low-carbon electricity generated, comprising primarily of hydropower and a negligible contribution from biofuels. Meanwhile, electricity from fossil sources totals around 3 TWh, indicating that a substantial portion of the country's electricity still comes from non-renewable sources, like gas. With the total electricity per capita at 296 kWh, Cameroon falls significantly short of the global average of 3,781 kWh/person. This low level of electricity generation could hinder economic growth, reduce the quality of life, and delay the country’s development as access to reliable and clean electricity is critical for industrial, educational, and healthcare advancements.
Is Electricity Growing in Cameroon?
Despite global trends towards increasing electricity consumption, particularly from clean sources, Cameroon appears to be moving in the opposite direction. The per capita electricity consumption in 2023 is 296 kWh, which has decreased from the previous high of 351 kWh/person observed in 2015. This represents a drop of 55 kWh/person over this period, reflecting a concerning trend. Likewise, the consumption of low-carbon electricity per person was at its peak in 2006 with 256 kWh, but has since seen a significant decline to 188 kWh/person. This 68 kWh drop underscores the need for Cameroon to reinvigorate its efforts toward expanding and optimizing clean electricity generation, serving as an urgent call for action to reverse these downward trends.
Suggestions
To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Cameroon can draw lessons from successful regions with robust clean energy programs, particularly in solar and nuclear. For instance, China’s massive deployment of both solar and wind technology has been instrumental, generating 890 TWh and 1093 TWh respectively. Similarly, the United States has made significant strides in nuclear energy production, contributing 781 TWh, demonstrating its effectiveness as a reliable low-carbon energy source. By focusing on scaling up solar energy, akin to India's 150 TWh solar energy production, and considering the inclusion of nuclear power, Cameroon can substantially drive its electricity sector towards a more sustainable future. These initiatives not only bolster energy security but also contribute positively to the environment by reducing fossil fuel reliance, thus mitigating climate change impacts and air pollution.
History
Examining the historical trajectory of low-carbon electricity in Cameroon, particularly hydroelectric power, reveals a pattern of moderate growth interspersed with occasional setbacks. In the early 1980s and late 1990s, the country experienced small incremental increases in hydroelectric generation, with growth ranging from 0.2 to 0.4 TWh annually. A notable jump occurred in 2017, with an increase of 0.7 TWh underscoring a period of advancement in hydroelectric infrastructure. However, this progress met with occasional declines, particularly a drop of 0.3 TWh in 2002, suggesting challenges to consistent growth. Supporting infrastructure and systems that stabilize hydropower generation, while integrating emerging technologies for greater diversity in low-carbon sources, such as expanding into solar and potentially, in the longsighted future, nuclear energy, is crucial to achieving a stable and progressive energy landscape in Cameroon.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.