In 2023, Guatemala's electricity mix reflects a strong commitment to low-carbon energy sources, which make up 72% of its total electricity generation. Notably, hydropower leads the way by contributing more than 40%, and biofuels follow with nearly a quarter. On the other hand, fossil fuels account for close to a quarter of the energy mix, with coal representing about two-thirds of this segment. Guatemala also sources a small percentage of its electricity through net imports. Wind and geothermal energy contribute similarly, each providing a little over 2%, while solar energy lags slightly behind at just under 2%. This overall low-carbon composition signifies a solid foundation towards sustainable energy, but there remains room for diversification and growth in the clean energy sector, particularly in solar and wind.
Is Electricity Growing in Guatemala?
Electricity consumption per person in Guatemala has seen a concerning downward trend recently. The latest figures for 2023 show a usage of 769 kWh per person, a decrease from the 2021 historic record of 881 kWh. This represents a decline of 112 kWh per person, which is troubling in a world that is increasingly relying on electricity due to electrification and the growth of technology sectors. Likewise, low-carbon electricity generation has also fallen, with current numbers at 553 kWh per person compared to the previous record of 646 kWh in 2021. This decrease by 93 kWh is a signal that efforts need to be intensified to bolster clean energy production to meet future demands and avoid reliance on fossil fuels that contribute negatively to climate change and air pollution.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Guatemala can benefit from studying successful regions with high percentages of clean energy sources in their electricity mix. Solar power presents a promising path forward; countries like Lebanon achieve 31% of their electricity from solar, offering a potential model for expansion. Additionally, investment in wind energy could also prove beneficial as seen in countries like Uruguay, which derives 34% of its electricity from wind power. Furthermore, while Guatemala currently doesn't utilize nuclear energy, countries like France, Slovakia, and several US states generate a substantial portion of their electricity from nuclear power, highlighting its potential as a large-scale and reliable source of clean energy. Together, these strategies can provide a more sustainable and resilient electricity framework for Guatemala.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Guatemala reveals several shifts in energy generation patterns. The early decades, particularly the late 1980s through the late 1990s, saw gradual increments in hydropower capacity. A more dynamic period occurred in the late 2000s and early 2010s, with periods of both growth and decline. Hydropower notably experienced significant increases in 2003 and 2010, yet faced setbacks in 2009 and 2015. Biofuels also periodically saw expansions, most notably 2010 and 2013. The more recent years, particularly 2017 to 2023, have been characterized by oscillations, with significant fluctuations in both hydro and biofuel contributions. However, the overall decline in 2023, especially in hydropower by 1.4 TWh, requires Guatemala to stabilize and further diversify its clean energy sources.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.