Why is Benin reliant on electricity imports?

Benin is reliant on electricity imports for a significant share of its energy supply. Reform programmes, including plans for electrification, have been put in place in the country, where only 30% of the population had access to electricity in 2017.

How much electricity does Benin need?

Benin belongs to several institutions like West Africa (WA), the African Union (AU), the World Trade Organization (WTO), ECOWAS, and WAEMU, and has a total installed energy capacity at 349 MW, with estimated electricity needs at 600 MW, given rapidly growing electricity demand, according to the West African Development Bank (BOAD, 2019) .

What is the energy sector strategy in Benin?

In Benin, the energy sector strategy is aimed at improving the energy independence of the country and diversifying its sources of supply through the implementation of various interconnection projects with neighbouring countries and the enhancement of the national RE potential.

What is Benin's current energy situation?

This section provides information on Benin’s current energy situation with energy demand-and-supply scenarios. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), 41% of Benin’s population currently have access to electricity.

Is biomass a good energy source in Benin?

Traditional biomass – the burning of charcoal, crop waste, and other organic matter – is not included. This can be an important energy source in lower-income settings. Benin: How much of the country’s energy comes from nuclear power? Nuclear energy – alongside renewables – is a low-carbon energy source.

How can bioenergy contribute to the energy sector in Benin?

In addition, the Vossa hydroelectric power plant of 60.2 MW is to be built with an annual production capacity of 188.2 GWh. An additional hydroelectric plant is planned to be installed in Bétérou to increase the national electricity production in Benin . Bioenergy can also play a crucial role in the energy sector in Benin.