Currently, Argentina's electricity consumption is fairly balanced between fossil and low-carbon sources, with each group providing about half of the electricity. More precisely, fossil energy, predominantly natural gas, contributes just over 51% to the total electricity mix. Oil and coal make up a minimal portion, each contributing significantly less than gas. On the other hand, low-carbon or clean energy sources account for slightly more than 48% of Argentina's electricity. Hydropower holds the largest share in this group, supplying almost a quarter of all electricity. Wind and nuclear power are also substantial low-carbon contributors, with wind providing over 12% and nuclear more than 7%. Solar energy and biofuels together contribute close to a paltry 5%.
Data sources used on this page include Ember, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Argentina?
Argentina's overall electricity consumption has seen a decline in recent years, a somewhat concerning trend given the global push for electrification. The current electricity consumption stands at 3257 kWh per person, a notable decrease from the 2016 figure of 3570 kWh per person. This highlights a reduction of 314 kWh per person. While this suggests a contraction in electricity usage overall, it's worth noting that low-carbon electricity generation shows a positive trend. In 2025, low-carbon sources provided 1567 kWh per person, which is a slight increase of 31 kWh per person from the previous year. This indicates a slow but crucial shift towards sustainable energy solutions.
Suggestions
To boost its low-carbon electricity generation, Argentina should focus on expanding its wind and solar sectors, as these have already proven successful domestically. Additionally, Argentina can draw inspiration from successful regions worldwide. For instance, Denmark and Iowa are leading examples of countries relying heavily on wind power, accounting for more than half of their electricity generation. Argentina should also learn from countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy plays a significant role, powering more than two-thirds of their electricity. Expanding solar energy should be a priority, taking cues from regions like Nevada and California, where solar contributes more than 30% to electricity generation. By leveraging these examples, Argentina can simultaneously improve its energy security and further decrease reliance on fossil fuels.
History
Historically, low-carbon electricity generation in Argentina has experienced significant fluctuations. The 1980s saw hydroelectric power undergo volatility, with both significant increases and occasional drops, such as a notable increase of 4.5 TWh in 1980 followed by a decline of 6.8 TWh in 1988. The 1990s and early 2000s were characterized by a series of ups and downs, yet there were commendable increases in hydro power, notably a striking increase of 8.2 TWh in 2001. More recently, the hydro sector faced downturns in 2019 and 2021 but rebounded with a remarkable 10.8 TWh surge in 2023. Wind energy has steadily gained traction since 2019, marking its importance in the energy mix. These trends highlight Argentina's potential and need for sustained expansion in low-carbon electricity generation, particularly through consistent investment in stable and sustainable technologies like wind, solar, and nuclear power.
