The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has immense, largely untapped energy potential—estimated at 100,000 MW of hydroelectric power—but suffers from severe energy poverty, with only 19–21% of its population having access to electricity. The energy mix is dominated by biomass (92%) and hydropower (96% of electricity), with major, often under-maintained infrastructure like Inga I and II, and plans for the massive Grand Inga project. The Congo River provides enormous hydroelectric capacity, particularly at Inga Falls. Currently, hydropower generates 96% of the country’s electricity, mostly from the ageing Inga I and Inga II dams. Despite being energy-rich, the DRC has one of the lowest electricity access rates in the world. Access is highly uneven, with roughly 41% in urban areas and as low as 1% in rural areas having access. Roughly 92% of the country’s total energy consumption is met by biomass (wood/charcoal), leading to significant deforestation, especially around urban areas. The government aims to increase electricity access to 32% by 2030. Projects like the Grand Inga Hydropower project and increased integration of solar and other renewables are seen as key to reducing dependence on biomass and enhancing stability. The DRC is a crude oil producer, but lacks domestic refining capacity, necessitating the import of all refined products.

As of 2026 there is no indication that the country is producing green hydrogen from electrolysis of seawater.