How can Niger balance its energy mix?

This transformative project, funded by the World Bank through the International Development Association (IDA), will enable Niger to better balance its energy mix, which is currently largely dominated by thermal energy. This initiative is particularly crucial for a country that frequently faces climatic shocks.

Why is access to energy a problem in Niger?

Despite this rich potential, access to energy is still a challenge for the authorities. Final energy consumption in Niger is estimated at 0.15 toe per capita, one of the lowest in the world. The weakness of this value is mainly due to limited access of Niger’s households to modern energy.

Why is electricity important in Niger?

Availability of electricity allows people both urban and rural to increase their income and improve their living conditions through developing income generating activities. The current authorities of Niger understand that energy is the basis of any change that leads to development.

How much energy does Niger use?

Final energy consumption in Niger is estimated at 0.15 toe per capita, one of the lowest in the world. The weakness of this value is mainly due to limited access of Niger’s households to modern energy. Indeed, over 90% of Niger’s households use wood as fuel for cooking. Access to modern cooking fuels and other modern energy is still very limited.

What is the energy potential of Niger?

Niger has significant energy potential, rich and varied, that is weakly exploited. It consists of biomass (firewood and agricultural residues, the main source used by households for cooking), uranium, mineral coal, oil, natural gas, hydroelectricity and solar energy.

Does Niger use wood for cooking?

Indeed, over 90% of Niger’s households use wood as fuel for cooking. Access to modern cooking fuels and other modern energy is still very limited. According to the energy balance of 2012, total primary energy supply in the country is estimated at 2747 ktoe, of which over 70% comes from biomass.