Currently, electricity generation in Belarus demonstrates a significant division between fossil and low-carbon sources. Over half of the country's electricity, more than 56%, is derived from fossil sources, with gas contributing almost 50% to this share. On the other hand, low-carbon technologies account for nearly 44% of the total electricity generation. Nuclear power leads the low-carbon segment by generating around 39% of the electricity, followed by minimal contributions from hydropower at just over 2%, and wind at about 1%. This blend indicates a substantial reliance on both fossil fuels and nuclear energy, positioning Belarus in a middle ground of energy transition.
Data sources used on this page include Ember, Energy Institute and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Belarus?
Analyzing electricity consumption trends in Belarus reveals a slight downturn. In 2025, the country's per capita electricity consumption decreased to 4893 kWh from the 2024 level of 5092 kWh. This decline of 198 kWh per person might raise concerns, especially when the global direction is towards increasing electricity to support economic growth and technological advancements. Nevertheless, there’s a silver lining with low-carbon electricity usage, which rose by 149 kWh per person from its previous record, reaching 2139 kWh in 2025. This increment reflects a positive shift towards cleaner power, albeit against the backdrop of overall consumption stagnation.
Suggestions
Belarus could enhance its low-carbon electricity generation by expanding the existing nuclear infrastructure, further capitalizing on its significant nuclear generation capacity. Observing successful regions worldwide, like France—where nuclear power provides more than two-thirds of the electricity—can serve as a model for such expansion. Simultaneously, Belarus could take cues from Lithuania, where wind power constitutes 35% of electricity generation. Additionally, countries like Germany and Netherlands have achieved notable solar electricity contributions, reinforcing the benefits of diversifying low-carbon sources by integrating more solar energy. Such steps align with global climate goals and ensure energy security while mitigating the downsides of fossil energy.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Belarus shows concerted efforts towards diversification and growth in recent years. The decade began with minor contributions from hydro and solar but marked significant progress with an increase in nuclear power in the early 2020s, particularly with a major nuclear development adding 5.4 TWh in 2021 and continued growth in subsequent years. Though a brief decline occurred in 2022 with nuclear dipping slightly, subsequent recovery and continued investments resulted in expansions by 2025, notably increases in hydro and wind energy as well. Despite modest setbacks in biofuels, the consistent upward trend in nuclear and broader low-carbon infrastructure underscores Belarus’s trajectory towards sustainable electricity solutions.
