In 2024, electricity consumption in Armenia is predominantly sourced from low-carbon energy, accounting for roughly 60% of the electricity mix. This green energy predominately includes nuclear power, contributing just under 30%, and hydropower, which supplies a bit more than 20%. Solar energy also plays a role, providing close to 10% of the low-carbon electricity. On the other hand, fossil energy, entirely from gas, contributes to about 40% of Armenia’s electricity. This substantial reliance on fossil fuels is concerning due to their contribution to climate change and air pollution. Hence, enhancing the share of low-carbon energy is crucial for a more sustainable and cleaner future.
Is Electricity Growing in Armenia?
Examining the electricity consumption trends in Armenia reveals a declining pattern as of late. The latest recorded consumption in 2024 is 3029 kWh per person, which is more than 400 kWh less than the record set in 2022. Similarly, the low-carbon electricity generation has decreased from its previous peak of 2083 kWh per person in 2022 to 1823 kWh per person. This indicates a regression of 260 kWh in clean energy production per person. Such a decline is disheartening, as it suggests that Armenia is moving away from increasing its electricity consumption, especially from clean energy sources, at a time when growing the green grid is essential for societal advancement and environmental sustainability.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Armenia can focus on expanding its existing nuclear facilities, given their significant role in the country's clean energy supply. Additionally, experiences from regions globally illustrate valuable pathways. Learning from New Hampshire and the broader example set by Ukraine, where nuclear energy constitutes 55% of electricity, can be instrumental. Moreover, Armenia might also look towards Lebanon and Nevada, where solar power plays an increasingly impactful role, contributing 31% and 29% of electricity respectively. By following these examples, Armenia can pave the way towards a cleaner and more robust electricity grid.
History
Historically, Armenia's journey with low-carbon electricity has been quite eventful. In the 1990s, shifts occurred with increases in hydropower and a significant rise in nuclear energy around 1996. However, subsequent years saw fluctuations, including nuclear generation drops in 1997 and 2016-2018, which were periods of concern. The new millennium witnessed moderate changes with some growth in nuclear and hydro facilities. The recent decade saw a more stabilized yet fluctuating pattern, with positive nuclear output changes in 2020 and 2022, paired with net losses in hydropower by 2023. It is imperative for Armenia to learn from these patterns and prioritize a strategic increase in low-carbon energy, focusing on the reliability and expansion of its nuclear infrastructure.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.