In 2004, Congo had total electric generation capacity of 121 megawatts (MW), which primarily came from hydropower (92 MW). Industry analysts estimate that Congo could have hydroelectric potential up to 30 times (3,000 MW) the current capacity, if it can be developed. The mainstays of Congo’s generating capabilities are the 74-MW capacity Bouenza (Moukoukoulou) and the 15-MW capacity Djoué hydroelectric plants. However, since the early 1980s, Moukoukoulou's actual productive capacity has been closer to 55 MW due to attacks occurring during the Congolese civil war in 1997-1999. State-run, Societe Nationale d'Electricite (SNE), estimates the cost of necessary repairs to the generating facilities at more than $20 million.

Congo generated 0.35 billion kilowatthours (Bkwh) of electricity in 2004, while consuming 0.66 Bkwh. The electricity generation deficiency forced the country to import electricity from the DRC. Even so, most Congolese in rural areas still rely on biomass as their primary fuel source since electricity transmission links are non-existent in many parts of the country. If funding can be attained, the Congolese government plans to reduce its reliance on electricity imports in the future by expanding current facilities and constructing additional generation facilities.