In 2023, Guatemala's electricity consumption primarily revolves around low-carbon energy sources, making up an impressive 72% of its total electricity generation. More than half of this low-carbon electricity, around 41%, is derived from hydropower. Biofuels contribute almost a quarter, while wind and geothermal energy each add approximately 2.5%. Solar energy accounts for nearly 2%, illustrating a modest yet crucial role in the country's clean energy mix. Amidst these low-carbon sources, fossil energy still plays a significant role, supplying close to a quarter of the overall electricity, with coal contributing the majority. Net imports comprise a small slice of electricity needs and are worth considering for energy security discussions.
Data sources used on this page include Ember, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Guatemala?
Despite its strong reliance on low-carbon energy sources, electricity consumption in Guatemala is witnessing a concerning downturn. The total electricity use in 2023 stands at 769 kWh per person, which is a noticeable decline from the 881 kWh per person recorded in 2021. This marks a decrease of 112 kWh per person. Similarly, the generation of low-carbon electricity has also diminished. It currently amounts to 553 kWh per person, showing a drop of 93 kWh per person from the 2021 level. Such trends indicate a reduction in both overall electricity consumption and low-carbon generation, highlighting the necessity to revitalize growth in these areas to ensure sustainable development and energy security.
Suggestions
To foster an increase in Guatemala's low-carbon electricity generation, the country can learn from successful regions worldwide. For example, regions with abundant wind potential like Denmark, Iowa, and South Dakota harness wind to supply up to 60% of their electricity, suggesting a strong opportunity for Guatemala to increase its wind energy share. Additionally, given its sunny climate, Guatemala has the potential to significantly expand solar energy generation. Countries like Chile and California have achieved around 25-31% solar electricity, a goal Guatemala could work towards. Furthermore, adopting nuclear energy strategies, as seen in countries like France and Slovakia generating over 60% of their electricity from nuclear sources, could offer a robust and reliable form of clean electricity that significantly reduces reliance on fossil fuels.
History
Looking at the history of low-carbon electricity in Guatemala, hydropower has seen fluctuations over the decades. Beginning with a steady rise in the late 1980s and through the 2000s, hydropower saw positive increments almost every few years, with the largest surge of 1.8 TWh in 2017. However, it also experienced setbacks, notably in 2009, 2015, and more recently in 2023, each recording declines. Biofuel generation saw smaller yearly increases but achieved a substantial boost of 1.1 TWh in 2021. Unfortunately, 2022 marked a decrease in biofuels. While these changes illustrate a mixed history, they emphasize the need for consistent policy support and investment to stabilize low-carbon electricity generation. Continuous efforts in diversifying and expanding energy sources such as solar and nuclear will be instrumental for Guatemala's sustainable future.
