How can Niger improve energy access?

Broadening energy access is a central national development objective in Niger. At present, less than 25% of the population enjoys access to electricity, and the picture in rural areas is bleaker, at less than 5% electricity access. Generation of electricity through renewables has long been viewed as an important way to close this gap.

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 need reliable electricity?

The Government of Niger views providing reliable electricity and other basic energy services to all populations and parts of the country as a critical aspect of its inclusive economic transformation plans. It also recognises decentralised renewable energy options as a cost-effective alternative to grid expansion in many rural areas.

What is the energy balance in Niger?

The energy balance in dominated by biomass, which represents 79% of total energy consumption and meets 83% of household energy needs, followed by petroleum products (18%) and mineral coal for electricity generation (3%). Renewables other than biomass remain negligible at less than 1%. The energy sector in Niger is at a critical crossroads.

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.

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.