El Salvador's current electricity consumption is significantly supported by low-carbon generation sources, which constitute more than two-thirds of the total. The diverse low-carbon mix in the country includes a substantial contribution from hydropower, accounting for over a quarter of total generation, and geothermal at around 18%. Solar energy adds another 15% to this low-carbon portfolio, showing the country's potential and commitment to sustainable energy. Fossil energy, on the other hand, represents just over 30% of the country's total electricity generation, with gas as the primary fossil source. The relatively high contribution of clean energy is promising for both environmental sustainability and energy security.
Data sources used on this page include Ember, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in El Salvador?
Analyzing the electricity consumption trends in El Salvador, the trajectory is upward. The per capita consumption of electricity has reached 1315 kWh in 2024, surpassing the previous high recorded in 2023. This increase of 27 kWh per person over a short span indicates continuing growth in electricity consumption, which is encouraging given the clean energy direction. Similarly, the generation from low-carbon sources is on a positive track, with the latest numbers at 891 kWh per person, exceeding the previous record from 2021. The pursuit of low-carbon electricity is showing tangible progress, though it remains crucial to accelerate this growth to meet future energy needs and mitigate the effects of climate change.
Suggestions
To further enhance low-carbon electricity generation, El Salvador should focus on expanding existing solar energy capabilities. Already a significant part of their energy mix, solar can play an even greater role by learning from regions like California and Lebanon, where solar energy accounts for around a third of electricity. Additionally, El Salvador should consider nuclear energy, looking to countries such as France and Slovakia closely integrated into their energy strategy. These regions demonstrate the capability of nuclear power in supplying a majority share of electricity, positioning it as a reliable and sustainable option for scaling clean energy supplies. Including wind energy, lessons from Denmark and various US states highlight the importance of diversifying energy sources to enhance sustainability and energy independence.
History
Historically, El Salvador's journey with low-carbon electricity has been a mix of gains and setbacks. Beginning in the late 1970s and throughout the subsequent decades, hydropower has seen fluctuations, with some growth periods, particularly in the early 1980s and 2010s, matched by declines at other times. The early 2000s notably experienced a series of negative adjustments, with 2000 and 2023 marking significant hydro setbacks. Recent years have shown resilience and recovery with hydropower upswings in 2020 and 2024. Solar energy made a notable entrance in 2020, while biofuels have seen minor reductions. The historical context underlines the importance of consistent and strategic investment in clean energy sources, with diversification through robust technologies such as solar and nuclear becoming increasingly critical.
