Case Study of LIC Energy Mix: Mali

Question 1

Describe the energy mix in Mali

Answer 1

91% biomass
2% other renewables (HEP)
Despite oil reserves in the North, reliance on oil imports for the remainder of the mix (6%)

Question 2

Describe the energy consumption pattern (by industrial sector)

Answer 2

• Domestic: 86%
• Transport: 10%
• Industry: 3%
• Agriculture: 1%

Question 3

Why does it have this energy mix?

Answer 3

• Little use for electricity except in urban areas - the main energy needs is for cooking and heating for which firewood is cheapest
• High rural/urban disparity > greater poverty in rural areas also causes dependence on biomass
• Unable to afford investment in coal/oil reserves and renewables