In 2023, electricity consumption in Guatemala is characterized by a strong reliance on low-carbon sources, which account for nearly three-quarters of the total supply. Hydropower is the most significant contributor, making up about 41%, while biofuels contribute almost 25%, and smaller shares are generated from wind, geothermal, and solar sources. On the other hand, fossil fuels account for approximately a quarter of electricity generation, with coal being the primary source of fossil-based energy at 17%. Imports provide a small fraction of the electricity supply, around 3%. The significant role of clean energy in Guatemala's electricity mix is a positive indicator of its commitment to sustainability, although there remains considerable potential to further reduce the dependence on fossil fuels.
Data sources used on this page include Ember, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Guatemala?
The overall electricity consumption in Guatemala seems to be experiencing a decrease. The per capita electricity consumption in 2023 stands at 769 kWh, which is notably lower than the 881 kWh recorded in 2021. This decline of 112 kWh suggests a contraction that, without being checked, could hinder future socioeconomic growth and the electrification needed for technological advances like AI. A similar decline is observed in low-carbon electricity generation per capita, which fell from 646 kWh to 553 kWh in the same time frame, a reduction of 93 kWh. Such declines are concerning, given the global need to increase clean electricity as a means to mitigate climate change and air pollution while supporting economic development.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Guatemala should consider further investments in solar and nuclear energy. Regions like North Macedonia and Lebanon have demonstrated significant solar energy deployment, with solar energy contributing around 49% and 31% of their electricity, respectively. Additionally, many countries have achieved substantial shares of nuclear energy, such as France with 67% and Slovakia with 66%, offering insights into how nuclear can play a transformative role. While Guatemala is rich in other low-carbon resources, diversified strategies that include increased investments and infrastructure for solar and nuclear could present substantial opportunities for expansion, aligning with global trends toward sustainable and resilient energy systems.
History
Historically, Guatemala has demonstrated periods of growth in its low-carbon electricity generation. The late 1980s saw modest hydropower expansions, while from the early 2000s onward, several years featured notable increases in hydro output, with significant jumps observed in 2010 and later in 2017. However, the more recent years, such as 2019 and 2023, witnessed declines, including a notable reduction in 2023. Biofuels have seen growth, notably in 2010 and 2021, even though there was a slight decline in 2022. These historical patterns underscore the importance of consistent policy and investment to stabilize and grow low-carbon energy capacities, further facilitating the country's transition towards a greener energy future.
