The objective of this study is to assess the effect of per capita energy consumption on development dynamics in Côte d'Ivoire. The basic hypothesis formulated assumes a positive effect in the short and long term. After analyzing our variables, we conducted an ARDL model. The result is that the increase in per capita energy consumption, reflecting economic dynamism, marked by the creation of new activities, and generating a need for labor, has a positive long-term effect on the level of per capita wealth. However, short-term shocks, and the gradual use of a production technology characterized by an intense substitution of labor by capital, could contribute to reversing the direction of this relationship. This would result in the reduction of growth gains directed to the poorest, yet most numerous, strata, thus affecting their welfare. The fundamental recommendation of this study is the need for policy makers to define an appropriate capital-labor ratio, so as to avoid the construction of an impoverishing industry.