Electricity in Azerbaijan in 2024

In 2024, Azerbaijan's electricity consumption is predominantly reliant on fossil fuels, with gas contributing almost 88% of its electricity production. The remaining fraction, nearly 12%, originates from low-carbon sources. Among these clean energy sources, hydropower stands as the major contributor, accounting for nearly 10% of the total electricity. In contrast, solar energy forms a smaller share, providing just over 1% of the country's electricity needs. This heavy reliance on fossil fuels not only impacts the environment negatively through greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution but also underscores the urgent need to diversify and expand Azerbaijan's clean energy portfolio.

Suggestions

To enhance its low-carbon electricity production, Azerbaijan could take inspiration from nuclear energy advancements in nearby countries like Armenia, which generates 30% of its electricity from nuclear power, and the significant contributions of nuclear power in Slovakia and Ukraine, with over half of their electricity coming from this source. Furthermore, investing in solar expansion can be beneficial, as seen in Lebanon, where solar energy accounts for almost a third of their electricity. Wind energy could also be a consideration for Azerbaijan, learning from Denmark's strong reliance on wind, which provides more than half of its electricity. By focusing on nuclear, solar, and wind, Azerbaijan can steadily transition towards a more sustainable electricity mix, reducing its carbon footprint and enhancing energy security.

History

Historically, Azerbaijan's journey in clean electricity generation has experienced fluctuating developments, especially in hydropower. In the mid-1980s through the late 1990s, the country experienced both gains and minor setbacks in hydropower generation, with noticeable increases in 1990 and 1993. However, the early 2000s marked growth in hydropower, particularly in 2002 and 2010. Despite some declines in subsequent years, recent developments in hydropower reflect a positive trend, notably the 1.3 TWh increase in 2024. The same year also saw a modest yet significant boost in solar electricity generation by 0.3 TWh. These improvements signify Azerbaijan's potential to further invest in sustainable technologies, driving a cleaner future for its electricity supply.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources