Country overview –
Located in Central Africa, Cameroon boasts diverse geographical features, including coastal plains, mountains, and vast river systems. This topography offers significant potential for various renewable energy sources. As of 2023, the country’s current GDP is USD49.26 billion with annual growth of 3.2 per cent.[1]
In Cameroon, access to electricity continues to be a significant developmental challenge. Despite substantial government subsidies and considerable hydropower potential, only 71 per cent of the population has access to electricity, and the cost remains among the highest in the region. In rural areas, 75 per cent of the population still lacks electricity access, even though many live near the grid.[2]
The government has set a target to increase the share of renewable energy to 25 per cent of the electricity mix by 2035, as outlined in its updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC).[3] This target excludes hydropower plants with capacities exceeding 5 MW, in accordance with the 2011 electricity sector law, which classifies only hydroelectric installations below 5 MW as renewable energy sources.
As of 2024, Cameroon’s green hydrogen sector is in the early stages of development, with significant potential yet to be realized. The country’s abundant renewable energy resources position it well for future green hydrogen production.
While Cameroon’s hydrogen energy sector is still emerging, the country’s rich renewable energy resources and strategic policy initiatives provide a strong foundation for future growth. Strategic investments in infrastructure, supportive policies, and international partnerships can be essential to harness this potential and position Cameroon as a key player in the green hydrogen sector
As of 2025, Cameroon has not yet established specific hydrogen policies.
As of 2025, Cameroon has not yet established specific hydrogen regulations.
Cameroon has set ambitious targets to enhance its electricity sector, aiming to add at least 3,500 MW of capacity by 2035 and achieve universal electricity access. This plan includes grid expansion, and the development of mini grids powered by diesel and hydro sources.
Few significant projects contributing to these goals include:
[1] Cameroon GDP - Worldometer
[1] Cameroon's journey toward affordable, reliable, and universal electricity access for all
[1] World Bank – Country Climate and Development Report
[1] COUNTRY PRIORITY PLAN AND DIAGNOSTIC OF THE ELECTRICITY SECTOR CAMEROON.
Cameroon has significant geothermal energy potential, particularly along the Cameroon Volcanic Line (CVL) and the Adamawa Plateau. Several studies have identified potential sites and explored the feasibility of geothermal development. As of 2023, there are no geothermal fields in operation in Cameroon.
As of 2024, Cameroon does not have established facilities for manufacturing electrolysers, which are essential for green hydrogen production.
In June 2021, the Cameroonian government signed a framework agreement with Australia’s Fortescue Future Industries to conduct technical studies for green hydrogen production. However, by late 2024, Fortescue withdrew from the project, citing challenges in the local investment climate.
[1] Nachtigal Hydro Power Plant, Sanaga River, Cameroon
[1] Infinity Power signs MoU to develop 4GW of renewable projects in Cameroon
[1] Release by Scatec to expand solar, storage capacity in Cameroon – pv magazine International
[1] GEOTHERMAL-DEVELOPMENT-IN-CAMEROON.pdf
[1] Why Fortescue is giving up on green hydrogen in Cameroon - The Africa Report.com