In the period from April 2025 to March 2026, Azerbaijan's electricity consumption showcases a heavy reliance on fossil fuels, with more than 85% of the electricity sourced from fossil energy, predominantly gas. Unfortunately, this means that only a small fraction, roughly 15%, of its electricity comes from low-carbon sources like hydropower and wind. Specifically, hydropower contributes nearly 13% while wind only adds about 1.5%. This heavy dependence on fossil fuels is concerning given the environmental impacts and the global shift towards sustainability. It highlights a significant area for improvement, particularly in expanding the role of clean energy sources in the national electricity mix.

Is Electricity Growing in Azerbaijan?

Despite global trends towards increased electricity use, Azerbaijan's electricity consumption per person shows a decline. As of 2026, each person consumes approximately 2525 kWh, a notable decrease from 1988's record of 3329 kWh per person. This reduction of 804 kWh per person indicates a contraction in electricity usage over the decades. Furthermore, in terms of low-carbon electricity generation, Azerbaijan stands at 370 kWh per person, marginally lower than its peak in 2010, when it recorded 377 kWh per person. Clearly, there is room for growth in both total and low-carbon electricity generation, which could support the country's development and align with global energy trends.

Suggestions

To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Azerbaijan could draw inspiration from regions with successful sustainable energy initiatives. Like France, Slovakia, and Ukraine, which leverage nuclear power significantly, Azerbaijan could consider adopting nuclear energy to diversify its electricity sources. Moreover, considering its climatic conditions conducive to solar energy, Azerbaijan could emulate countries like Nevada, Lebanon, and Chile, where solar power constitutes a major part of the energy mix. By investing in solar infrastructures and exploring nuclear options, Azerbaijan could significantly boost its clean energy share, aligning with global efforts to cut carbon emissions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

History

Looking at the historical data, Azerbaijan's journey towards low-carbon electricity has seen fluctuating contributions mostly from hydropower. In the early years of the 1990s, there was some growth with hydropower adding to the electricity mix. However, the late 1990s and 2010s saw some setbacks with minor declines. Recent years have shown renewed interest with increases noted in 2024 and 2025, coinciding with small inputs from solar and wind energy. Despite these positive steps, the overall growth remains modest. For Azerbaijan, strengthening its commitment to expanding clean energy resources is crucial, especially as the recent years indicate potential for improvement and greater reliance on sustainable energy practices.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Apr 2025 – Mar 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.