In Russia, the current landscape of electricity consumption reveals a significant reliance on fossil energy, which accounts for more than half of the total electricity generated, at approximately 63%. Within this category, gas represents nearly 45% while coal contributes around 18%. On the other hand, low-carbon energy sources, which provide a cleaner alternative, account for a little over a third of the electricity consumption. Nuclear energy, being a substantial player in Russia's low-carbon portfolio, generates about 18% of the total electricity. Hydropower also makes a notable contribution, covering roughly the same share as nuclear at around 18%. This mix of low-carbon energy demonstrates Russia's potential and existing commitment to greener electricity options, even as fossil fuels continue to dominate the scene.
Data sources used on this page include Ember, Energy Institute and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Russia?
Regarding the growth of electricity consumption in Russia, there is a modest increase in overall electricity usage per person with the current level at 8042 kWh/person, up from the 2021 peak of 7934 kWh/person. This upward trajectory is a positive indicator of increasing electricity usage, although the growth is quite limited, with an increase of only 108 kWh/person. However, there is a concerning decline in low-carbon electricity generation per person, which has decreased from its 2021 record of 3035 kWh/person to the latest value of 2953 kWh/person. This drop of 82 kWh/person in low-carbon generation highlights a setback in Russia's green energy efforts, reflecting an area that needs substantial attention to counteract the rising fossil energy dominance.
Suggestions
To enhance the share of low-carbon electricity generation, Russia could significantly expand its existing nuclear infrastructure, learning from countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear contributes approximately 68% and 67% respectively to their electricity generation. These nations exemplify what is achievable with a committed implementation of nuclear energy. Additionally, exploring solar energy, perhaps by taking cues from solar-success stories like Nevada and California with their substantial solar contributions, would diversify Russia's low-carbon mix. By also considering the successful integration of wind energy, as observed in Denmark and Iowa, Russia can craft a more robust and sustainable energy portfolio, setting a course towards a clean energy future.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Russia has been marked by fluctuations, particularly in nuclear and hydropower, over recent decades. In the late 1980s, nuclear energy saw notable increases followed by sharp declines in the early 1990s, reflecting a period of instability. The mid-1990s to early 2000s were characterized by a mix of growth and reductions, yet nuclear power made a solid comeback post-2000. Conversely, hydropower experienced significant gains in certain years, such as 2004 and 2013, but has also faced declines, notably in 2022. These oscillations highlight both challenges and opportunities in stabilizing and growing Russia's low-carbon electricity generation capacity. Looking ahead, consistent and strategic enhancement of nuclear and other low-carbon sources will be crucial for Russia's energy landscape.
