Electricity in Azerbaijan in 2024
In 2024, Azerbaijan's electricity consumption is predominantly fossil-based, with approximately 88% of electricity generated from fossil fuels, primarily driven by gas, which alone accounts for nearly 88%. This heavy reliance on fossil sources contributes to climate change and air pollution concerns, highlighting the urgency for diversification towards low-carbon alternatives. Meanwhile, clean electricity sources make up nearly 12% of the total, with hydropower contributing about 10% and solar energy adding just over 1%. This current energy mix reveals an urgent need for Azerbaijan to expand its low-carbon energy production to achieve a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy future.
Is Electricity Growing in Azerbaijan?
When examining the trends in electricity consumption in Azerbaijan, it's apparent that electricity usage has not yet surpassed its historical peak. The latest data from 2024 shows an average of 2818 kWh per person, which is a decrease of 511 kWh compared to a record high in 1988. Furthermore, low-carbon electricity generation per capita in 2024 is recorded at 337 kWh, down by 40 kWh from its earlier peak in 2010. This declining trend indicates a stagnation that is concerning, considering the increasing global emphasis on clean energy transitions. To meet potential future demand, as the country progresses towards electrification and embraces technology advances, a renewed focus on increasing electricity generation, particularly through low-carbon means, is paramount.
Suggestions
Azerbaijan can significantly boost its low-carbon electricity generation by looking at methods employed successfully by other regions. Introducing nuclear energy could be highly transformative, taking cues from countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear accounts for 69% and 64% of electricity generation, respectively. Additionally, solar energy has immense potential in Azerbaijan; lessons from Lebanon and Greece, where solar contributes over 20% of electricity, can guide implementation strategies. By focusing on expanding both nuclear and solar capacities, Azerbaijan can effectively increase its share of low-carbon electricity, curbing reliance on fossil fuels and enhancing energy security.
History
The history of Azerbaijan's low-carbon electricity sector shows fluctuating trends, particularly dominated by hydropower with some recent advancements in solar. Through the late 1980s and 1990s, hydropower saw periods of both growth and decline, with a notable increase in 2010 of 1.1 TWh. However, the subsequent years reflected setbacks with continued dips until minor recoveries began mid-decade. Another significant uptick occurred in 2024, bringing hydropower up by 1.3 TWh alongside the introduction of solar, contributing 0.3 TWh. This demonstrates a recent, promising shift towards increased investment in green technologies. However, intensified and consistent efforts are imperative for Azerbaijan to solidify gains in clean electricity generation and drive sustainable growth in line with ecological targets and energy independence goals.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.