Electricity in Armenia in 2022

As of 2022, more than half of Armenia's electricity consumption comes from low-carbon sources, with clean electricity accounting for roughly 57% of the total. Notably, nuclear power plays a major role, contributing about 30% to the country's electricity mix. Hydropower also has a significant share, covering approximately 23%, while solar energy, although still in its early stages, provides close to 4%. On the other hand, fossil energy relies entirely on gas, which supplies around 43% of the electricity. The balanced mix of low-carbon and fossil energy shows that Armenia is already on a considerable path toward sustainable energy, with room for growth in low-carbon sources to further decrease dependency on fossil fuels.

Suggestions

To enhance Armenia's low-carbon electricity generation, focusing on expanding existing nuclear power facilities could be a strategic move, given their substantial contribution to the country's electricity. Nuclear energy has already proven successful in Armenia, generating a large share of clean electricity. Taking inspiration from countries with efficient low-carbon systems, Armenia could look to nations like France and Slovakia, where nuclear power contributes 68% and 60% respectively, or Ukraine with 55%, illustrating that reliance on nuclear can be both feasible and advantageous. Additionally, drawing lessons from solar success stories, like Lithuania where solar contributes substantially, Armenia could further invest in solar energy. Such strategic actions could help Armenia bolster its clean electricity supply, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions and alleviating the impacts of climate change.

History

Armenia's journey toward low-carbon electricity began in the early 1990s with a notable increase in hydropower generation, peaking in 1992 and 1993 before experiencing a downturn through the mid-1990s. The mid-1990s also marked the beginning of notable nuclear contributions, with significant gains recorded in 1996. However, the path was not entirely smooth, as evidenced by intermittent declines in nuclear output, particularly concerning in years like 1997 and 2018. Despite these fluctuations, recent trends are encouraging, underscored by a positive gain in nuclear generation by 0.8 TWh in 2022. Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, both hydro and nuclear energy exhibited periods of growth, demonstrating the resilience and adaptability of Armenia's clean energy landscape. These historical developments underline the viability and potential of low-carbon technologies to power Armenia sustainably.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources