As of 2022, electricity consumption in Cape Verde predominantly relies on fossil energy, with more than two-thirds of the electricity coming from such sources. Fossil fuels constitute around 72% of the country's electricity generation. However, Cape Verde has made strides in embracing clean energy, with low-carbon sources comprising approximately 28% of its electricity mix. Wind and solar energy equally contribute to this low-carbon segment, each accounting for nearly 14% of the electricity generation. This shows a commendable effort toward sustainable energy solutions, though there is clearly room for growth in reducing dependence on fossil fuels to combat climate change and air pollution.
Is Electricity Growing in Cape Verde?
Electricity consumption in Cape Verde is on a positive trajectory, with an increase evident over recent years. In 2022, the electricity consumption rose to 962 kWh per person, marking a growth compared to the previous record of 878 kWh per person in 2016. This reflects a rise of about 84 kWh per person, indicating growing electricity use overall. Particularly noteworthy is the expansion of low-carbon electricity generation, reaching 269 kWh per person in 2022, up from the previous best of 176 kWh per person recorded in 2013. These positive trends affirm that Cape Verde is not only increasing its electricity usage but also embracing sustainable sources for this growth.
Suggestions
To further expand its low-carbon electricity generation, Cape Verde should consider increasing its investments in both wind and solar technologies, as both already make significant contributions to the country's energy mix. Lessons can be drawn from regions excelling in these technologies, such as Denmark and South Dakota, where wind contributes to more than half of their electricity generation. Additionally, Cape Verde could diversify its clean energy portfolio by exploring nuclear energy, taking a page from countries like France and Slovakia renowned for harnessing nuclear power efficiently. By expanding existing wind and solar infrastructure and contemplating the inclusion of nuclear energy, Cape Verde can amplify its shift towards a more sustainable and resilient electricity system.
History
Over the past two decades, Cape Verde has seen little to no change in its wind electricity generation, with stagnant growth until recent upticks in solar energy production in 2022. This highlights a pattern of stability without significant expansion in clean energy avenues during most of this period. However, the slight progress in solar generation by 0.1 TWh in 2022 indicates a turn towards enhancing the country's clean energy landscape. While historically, growth in low-carbon electricity was limited to small increments, the recent push towards solar advancement reflects a renewed commitment to increasing Cape Verde's sustainable electricity production. Nonetheless, a concerted effort is still needed to accelerate this growth to meet future demand sustainably.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.