How does the Democratic Republic of the Congo support the economy?

In the AC, Democratic Republic of the Congo supports an economy six-times larger than today’s with only 35% more energy by diversifying its energy mix away from one that is 95% dependent on bioenergy.

Could the Congo become an electricity exporter?

Almost all electricity generation today comes from hydropower and the Inga project has the potential to provide much more. If network constraints are addressed, Democratic Republic of the Congo could become an electricity exporter.

How much electricity does the DR Congo import?

The DR Congo imported 78 million kWh of electricity in 2007. The DR Congo is also an exporter of electric power. In 2003, electric power exports came to 1.3 TWh, with power transmitted to the Republic of Congo and its capital, Brazzaville, as well as to Zambia and South Africa.

What is the Congo Energy Atlas?

This Atlas was created by the UNDP, Netherlands Development Organization SNV, and the Congolese Ministry of Water Resources and Electricity. It has 600 interactive maps and informs policymaking on decentralizing energy and encourages further renewable energy investments.

Why is the Democratic Republic of Congo experiencing a general energy crisis?

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is currently experiencing a general energy crisis due to the lack of proper investment and management in the energy sector. Some 93.6% of the country is highly dependent on wood fuel as main source of energy, which is having severe impacts such as deforestation and general degradation of the environment.

How much power does the Democratic Republic of the Congo have?

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has reserves of petroleum, natural gas, coal, and a potential hydroelectric power generating capacity of around 100,000 MW. The Inga Dam on the Congo River has the potential capacity to generate 40,000 to 45,000 MW of electric power, sufficient to supply the electricity needs of the whole Southern Africa region.