Togo achieves 70% electrification: On track for universal access by 2030
Lomé, Togo – march 2025 – Togo has reached a major milestone in its energy sector, with 70% of its population now having access to electricity, according to the latest government data. This represents a significant jump from just 50% in 2020, putting the West African nation firmly on course to meet its ambitious goal of universal electrification by 2030.
Rapid Progress through strategic investments
The country’s electrification rate has shown consistent growth:
- 2020: 50% access
- 2023: 68% access
- 2024: 70% access
This progress stems from President Faure Gnassingbé’s comprehensive energy strategy, which prioritizes:
- Grid expansion to rural and peri-urban areas
- Solar energy projects, including the innovative CIZO off-grid program
- Public-private partnerships to accelerate infrastructure development
CIZO initiative: Powering remote communities
A key driver of Togo’s success has been the CIZO program, which provides affordable solar home systems to households beyond the national grid. Since its launch, CIZO has:
- Delivered clean energy to over 500,000 people
- Created thousands of local jobs in installation and maintenance
- Reduced reliance on costly and polluting alternatives like kerosene
Economic and social benefits
Reliable electricity access is transforming lives across Togo:
- Business growth: Small enterprises can now operate after dark and use digital tools
- Education: Students study longer with proper lighting
- Healthcare: Clinics refrigerate vaccines and operate essential equipment
Challenges remain
While progress is impressive, hurdles persist:
- Financing for last-mile connectivity
- Maintenance of new infrastructure
- Affordability for low-income households
The Road to 2030
With current momentum, experts believe Togo could achieve 85-90% electrification by 2027. The government plans to:
- Triple investments in renewable energy
- Strengthen regional power interconnections
- Implement smart metering technologies
Togo’s electrification success story offers valuable lessons for neighboring countries. By combining political will, innovative solutions like CIZO, and strategic partnerships, the nation proves that energy access gaps can be closed within a decade.
Read also: Togo: Driven by President Faure Gnassingbé, the modernization and digitalization of public services in progress
