In Peru, the electricity consumption landscape in 2024 reveals an encouraging presence of low-carbon energy sources, comprising 59.24% of the total electricity generation. Within this category, hydropower is a dominant player, contributing more than half with 50.15%. Wind and solar energy add to this clean mix with 6.1% and 2.02% respectively. On the other hand, fossil fuels still occupy a significant portion of the energy pie, at 40.69%, with gas being the predominant fossil fuel source at 39.49%. This distribution highlights the need for a continued and focused transition towards more sustainable sources to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, which are major drivers of climate change and air pollution.
Data sources used on this page include Ember, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Peru?
Electricity consumption in Peru has been on a slight upward trajectory, as captured by the latest consumption figure of 1869 kWh per person in 2024. This represents an increase from the previous record of 1839 kWh per person set in 2023, signifying an improvement, albeit modest. More promising is the notable growth in low-carbon electricity generation, with 2024 seeing 1107 kWh per person, marking an increase from the 2019 record of 1061 kWh per person. This growth indicates a supportive trend towards clean energy, yet these gains need to be accelerated to adequately meet future demand and bolster the country's commitment to sustainable development.
Suggestions
To further boost low-carbon electricity generation, Peru can glean valuable insights from successful regions globally. For instance, Denmark and Iowa are exceptional examples when it comes to wind energy, generating 58% and 60% of their electricity respectively from wind, showcasing its potential in harnessing natural wind resources. On the solar front, leveraging strategies seen in Nevada and Chile, whereby solar energy accounts for around a third and 23% of electricity respectively, can be a pathway for Peru to follow. While Peru currently lacks nuclear power, adopting learnings from France and Slovakia, where nuclear power fuels 70% and 66% of electricity generation, could provide a stable and clean energy source. By following these examples, Peru can significantly diversify and strengthen its green energy portfolio.
History
Historically, Peru has seen a series of developments in its low-carbon electricity sector, especially in hydropower, starting with incremental gains such as the one seen in 1981 with an increase of 1 TWh. Notable growth spikes in hydro came in the 1990s and 2000s, although there were some inconsistencies, such as minor declines in 1992 and 2004. Dramatic gains like the 4.9 TWh rise in 2017 showcased the potential of hydropower. Fast forwarding to 2024, not only has hydropower risen by 2.9 TWh, but there has also been a significant leap in wind energy by 1.5 TWh, signaling an expansion in clean energy sources. These historical trends emphasize the importance of continued investment and focus on low-carbon energy to maintain and accelerate this growth trajectory.
