How much does electricity cost in Somalia?

Regarding costs per kilowatt-hour of electricity, Somalia has one of the highest unit prices in Africa. Somalia has higher tariffs than neighboring countries Kenya and Ethiopia, ranging from 50-125 cents/kWh compared to 0.15 cents/kWh in Kenya and 0.6 cents/kWh in Ethiopia. Somalia’s energy sector is considered promising for growth and investment.

What is the energy sector like in Somalia?

Somalia’s energy sector is considered promising for growth and investment. Small and medium-sized private sector companies are the main providers of electricity generation and distribution, primarily running diesel powered systems through off-grid networks.

Does Somalia have a power grid?

There is no national power grid. Diesel generators are the primary source of electricity. Most generators and distribution equipment are old and inefficient, resulting in a low-quality electricity supply. Regarding costs per kilowatt-hour of electricity, Somalia has one of the highest unit prices in Africa.

What is the main source of energy in Somaliland?

Elmi says that charcoal is the main source of energy, as electricity is rare and expensive for many. The rampant deforestation is not unique to Somaliland. In southern Somalia, al-Qaeda-linked Shebab insurgents turned charcoal burning and exportation into one of their major sources of income.

How many people in Somalia have access to electricity?

While variations exist between rural and urban areas, in 2023 the Somali Household Budget survey estimated more than half of the population (61.9 percent) had access to electricity, demonstrating progress on the expansion of electricity services in the country.

Who generates electricity in Somalia?

Small and medium-sized private sector companies are the main providers of electricity generation and distribution, primarily running diesel powered systems through off-grid networks. Private Somali companies generate approximately 128MW; most companies generate and distribute electricity independently.