Electricity Access and Consumption in Africa

The Electricity Access and Consumption in Africa study, authored by Orizon Consulting in collaboration with the University of Tsukuba, investigates the underlying factors shaping electricity consumption across 51 African countries between 2000 and 2013. By combining Index Decomposition Analysis (IDA) with satellite-derived nighttime lighting and population data, the research identifies how demographic, economic, and technological trends influence electricity demand across diverse national contexts.

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Findings reveal that population growth and economic activity are the strongest drivers of rising electricity use, while improvements in energy efficiency have reduced intensity in some regions. The study highlights stark contrasts in access between urban and rural populations and underscores the need for data-driven, region-specific energy policies to achieve universal access and sustainable development. This integrated analytical approach demonstrates how satellite data can enhance the design of evidence-based electrification and energy transition strategies across Africa. 

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This study is published in the Engineering Journal.