In 2024, Argentina’s electricity consumption shows a significant reliance on fossil fuels, with more than half coming from these sources. Specifically, fossil energy accounts for about 58% of the total electricity mix, with natural gas contributing the largest share at 51%, followed by oil at 6%. On the other hand, low-carbon or clean energy sources make up nearly 37% of the consumption, with hydropower leading the way at approximately 16%. Wind energy is not far behind, providing a respectable 10% of the electricity supply, and solar power contributes a modest 2.5%. Nuclear energy accounts for about 7%, showcasing a robust presence of low-carbon options in Argentina's energy landscape.
Is Electricity Growing in Argentina?
Argentina’s electricity consumption per person was recently recorded at 3425 kWh in 2024, which is a decrease compared to the previous record of 3569 kWh/person set in 2016. This decline, amounting to 144 kWh/person, indicates a worrying trend of reduced overall electricity consumption. Similarly, the generation of low-carbon electricity also saw a decline compared to its previous peak performance in 2023. The latest figures show 1257 kWh/person from low-carbon sources, which is 36 kWh/person less than the 2023 record of 1293 kWh/person. This decrease in consumption and low-carbon generation raises concerns about Argentina's potential to meet growing electricity demands, essential for economic growth and sustainability.
Suggestions
To enhance the generation of low-carbon electricity, Argentina can focus on expanding its wind power capabilities, which already constitute a significant portion of the country's clean energy mix. Emulating countries like Denmark, where wind power accounts for more than half of their electricity production, could be highly beneficial. Moreover, Argentina can learn from nuclear energy leaders like France, Slovakia, and Ukraine, where nuclear energy comprises a substantial share of their electricity generation. Such international examples emphasize the potential gains from diversifying and expanding low-carbon sources, particularly solar and nuclear, to combat climate change and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
History
Historically, Argentina has experienced fluctuations in low-carbon electricity generation. In the 1980s, especially 1980, hydroelectric power saw a notable increase, yet there were some significant declines, such as in 1988 and 1999. The early 2000s showed improvement, with substantial boosts in hydro in 2000 and 2001, but challenges continued with dips in 2007 and 2019. However, the recent decade has seen promising developments in wind energy, especially in 2019 and 2020, alongside some variations in hydro output. The fluctuating history of hydroelectricity suggests a need for diversification and stability, guiding Argentina towards more consistent development of clean energy technologies, including solar and nuclear, to ensure a reliable and sustainable electricity supply.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.