In 2024, electricity consumption in Belarus showed a diverse mix of energy sources. Fossil fuels, specifically gas, remained the largest source of electricity, accounting for nearly 60% of the total consumption. On the other hand, low-carbon energy sources provided just over 39% of the electricity, with nuclear power leading the way at more than 36%. Contributions from biofuels and net imports were minimal, with each making up just over 1% of the total. This distribution highlights a commitment toward clean energy sources, despite the significant role that fossil fuels still play.
Data sources used on this page include Ember, Energy Institute and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Belarus?
Electricity consumption in Belarus has seen growth, reaching 5092 kWh per person in 2024. This marked an increase from the 1991 high of 4821 kWh, indicating a modest rise of 271 kWh per person. The increase is even more impressive in low-carbon electricity generation, which reached 1990 kWh per person, showcasing a substantial increase of 556 kWh compared to 2023. This growth reflects an ongoing shift toward cleaner, more sustainable energy production in the region, emphasizing the importance of ongoing investment in clean energy infrastructure to reduce reliance on fossil fuels further.
Suggestions
To further boost low-carbon electricity generation, Belarus should consider expanding its existing nuclear infrastructure. Taking lessons from countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy plays a major role in electricity generation, could guide this expansion. Additionally, incorporating solar energy, as seen in regions like Nevada and Lebanon, can complement nuclear power. By diversifying their clean energy portfolio and learning from regions with successful low-carbon generation models, Belarus can reduce its dependency on fossil fuels while meeting its growing electricity demand sustainably.
History
Analyzing the history of low-carbon electricity in Belarus, notable developments have been evident from the early 2010s. Incremental growth in hydro and wind energy was observed since 2013, albeit with minor annual increases. A significant surge occurred in nuclear power in the early 2020s, with substantial gains in 2021 and 2023, followed by additional growth in 2024. Despite a temporary decline in nuclear output in 2022, it quickly rebounded, contributing significantly to the low-carbon mix. As Belarus continues to invest in and prioritize nuclear energy, this trajectory promises a future where clean power is increasingly dominant.
