In 2023, Senegal's electricity consumption heavily relies on fossil energies, with almost three-quarters of its power coming from these sources. Clean energy sources, including solar, wind, and hydropower, account for just about a fifth of the country's electricity. Solar power contributes about 7%, while wind is responsible for nearly 9%. Hydropower remains a smaller player, with less than 4%. Biofuels, although a part of the low-carbon mix, scarcely make up more than 1%. Notably, Senegal also depends on net imports for nearly 6% of its electricity. This current state highlights a significant leaning toward fossil fuels, indicating a pressing need for increased investment in low-carbon alternatives to reduce environmental impacts and foster sustainable energy development.
Is Electricity Growing in Senegal?
Electricity consumption in Senegal is on an upward trajectory, signaling economic growth and increased power accessibility. In 2023, the country's electricity usage reached 472 kWh per person, surpassing its previous record of 453 kWh per person in 2022. This is a positive progression of 20 kWh per person. However, disappointingly, low-carbon electricity generation per person experienced a minor regression, decreasing from 99 kWh per person in 2022 to 97 kWh in 2023. This decline in clean electricity is concerning, as it indicates that, despite the overall increase in electricity consumption, the contribution of sustainable sources is not keeping pace. It's crucial for Senegal to refocus efforts on bolstering low-carbon electricity generation to align with global trends towards greener power.
Suggestions
Senegal could take significant strides in expanding its low-carbon electricity generation by exploring the successes of other regions. For instance, Denmark and Iowa have demonstrated exceptional capabilities in harnessing wind power, generating about 57% and 62% of their electricity from this source, respectively. These examples show how prioritizing wind energy can significantly boost the clean energy share in the electricity mix. On the other hand, countries like France with 69% and Slovakia with 64% of their electricity from nuclear power exemplify how strategic investment in nuclear energy can form a robust backbone for low-carbon electricity generation. By learning from these exemplary regions, Senegal can strategically enhance its own electricity portfolio, focusing on solar and nuclear power as promising avenues for clean energy development.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Senegal reveals a journey characterized by small, incremental changes. In the early 2000s, hydropower saw modest increases, with minor gains until a slight decline in 2007. Fast forward to 2017, solar energy began to make its mark, witnessing notable contributions, particularly from 2017 to 2019. The advent of wind power in 2020 marked a pivotal enhancement in Senegal's green energy sector, with ongoing growth into 2022. Although these improvements are commendable, a broader commitment to scaling up clean energy capacities is imperative to meet rising electricity demands sustainably in the future.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.