As of 2023, electricity consumption in Equatorial Guinea is primarily dependent on fossil fuels, accounting for almost 69% of energy use. The significant contributor to this category is gas, making up roughly 68% of electricity consumption. The remaining portion, a substantial more than 31%, comes from low-carbon energy sources, specifically hydropower. This emphasizes the reliance on a single clean energy source, which is crucial for mitigating climate-related challenges and promoting a more sustainable energy portfolio.
Is Electricity Growing in Equatorial Guinea?
Despite the pressing need for sustainable growth in electricity consumption, Equatorial Guinea is witnessing a slight decline. Currently, the average electricity consumption is 850 kWh per person, which is a 78 kWh decrease from the peak recorded in 2016. Similarly, the production of low-carbon electricity has also seen a downturn with 265 kWh per person in 2023, reflecting a drop of 58 kWh compared to the highest record set in 2015. These figures indicate a worrying stagnation in both total and clean electricity use, a trend that requires strategic intervention to reverse in favor of broader electrification efforts in tandem with increasing global demand.
Suggestions
To harness the potential of low-carbon electricity generation, Equatorial Guinea can draw inspiration from other regions that have successfully implemented sustainable energy solutions. The extensive deployment of nuclear energy in countries such as France and Slovakia, and the utilization of wind power in states like Iowa and South Dakota, sets a commendable example. Encouraging investments in nuclear and solar energy can drive significant growth, enabling Equatorial Guinea to diversify its clean energy sources and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Strategic development and adoption of these technologies hold the promise of transforming the nation’s energy landscape into one that is resilient, sustainable, and capable of meeting future demands.
History
Historically, Equatorial Guinea's journey to increasing low-carbon electricity has been modest and inconsistent, mainly relying on hydropower. From 1991 through to 2008 and again from 2010 to 2023, electricity generation from hydropower either remained stagnant or increased slightly, with increments of just 0.1 to 0.2 TWh. Apart from minor upticks around the early 2010s, the long-standing status quo suggests much potential remains untapped. Moving forward, Equatorial Guinea can benefit significantly from a more ambitious investment in both new hydropower projects and a broadened focus on emerging clean energy alternatives to boost its low-carbon electricity footprint.