Over the past 12 months, from September 2024 to August 2025, Bolivia's electricity consumption has shown a significant reliance on fossil fuels. Approximately two-thirds, or 66 percent, of the country’s electricity comes from fossil sources, with natural gas alone accounting for the entirety of this fossil share. In contrast, more than a third of Bolivia's electricity generation is from low-carbon sources, which includes hydropower, solar, and wind energy. Hydropower is the leading low-carbon provider, contributing nearly 28 percent, while solar and wind together make up close to 6 percent, with solar at nearly 3 percent and wind at a similar percentage. The current makeup suggests a strong dependency on natural gas, though there is a substantial, yet insufficient, portion coming from green sources.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Bolivia?
Recent data shows a concerning decline in Bolivia's overall electricity consumption and low-carbon generation. The current electricity consumption stands at 939 kWh per person, a decline from the previous record in 2024, when it was 998 kWh per person, representing a drop of 59 kWh per person. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation is also decreasing, with the current level at 323 kWh per person compared to the previous high of 379 kWh in 2024, a decrease of 56 kWh per person. This downturn in sustainable electricity generation is worrisome given the pressing need for clean energy to combat climate change and reduce air pollution.
Suggestions
To enhance its low-carbon electricity, Bolivia could look to successful countries that have effectively incorporated solar and wind energy, alongside nuclear power. For instance, Lebanon and Nevada generate around 30 percent and nearly 31 percent of their electricity from solar power, demonstrating solar's potential even in diverse regions. In terms of wind energy, states like Iowa and South Dakota lead with wind supplying 60 percent and 57 percent, respectively, of their total electricity. Incorporating nuclear energy can also be instrumental, as seen in nations such as France where it accounts for 69 percent of the electricity. By investing in nuclear and solar power, Bolivia can diversify its energy portfolio, reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, and improve its clean energy credentials significantly.
History
The evolution of low-carbon electricity in Bolivia reflects both challenges and potential. In the early 1990s, there were small increases and decreases in hydropower output, showing a fluctuating commitment to low-carbon sources. The early 2000s saw similar patterns, with modest reductions and increases. However, in the last decade, there have been positive movements, notably between 2017 and 2019, when hydropower generation markedly increased by approximately 1.5 TWh. The introduction of wind and biofuels as low-carbon sources in 2021 and 2022 further diversified Bolivia’s electricity mix. Yet, these developments were marred by recent declines in hydropower and a slight reduction in biofuels in 2025, highlighting the need for more stable and significant advances, especially through nuclear and solar energy. This will not only ensure a sustainable energy future for Bolivia but also position it as a leader in green electricity production.
