Electricity in Belarus in 2022

In 2022, electricity consumption in Belarus was overwhelmingly dependent on fossil fuels, with almost 85% generated from fossil sources, including close to 80% from natural gas alone. Despite this heavy reliance on fossil energy, there is a notable presence of low-carbon electricity, accounting for roughly 15% of the total. Of this low-carbon energy, the majority came from nuclear power, which contributed more than 12% of the total electricity generation. Other clean sources like biofuels and hydropower each made up barely more than 1% of the mix, indicating a very modest presence of these alternative energies.

Suggestions

To increase its share of low-carbon electricity generation, Belarus can significantly expand its nuclear capabilities, given that it already has some infrastructure in place. Learning from other countries' successes can be pivotal here. For example, France and Slovakia generate a substantial majority of their electricity from nuclear power, at 65% and 62% respectively, demonstrating the feasibility of scaling up nuclear energy. Similarly, neighboring Ukraine generates more than half its electricity from nuclear sources. By investing in nuclear energy, Belarus can reduce its fossil fuel dependency and contribute to combating climate change and air pollution. Additionally, Belarus can look to countries like Denmark and Ireland, which have successfully incorporated a large share of wind energy, for insights into developing its wind energy potential.

History

Historically, low-carbon electricity in Belarus has been relatively stagnant until recent years. Biofuels and hydropower showed minor changes from 2009 to 2019 with little to no significant growth. It wasn't until 2017 that hydropower saw a slight increase of 0.3 TWh, and solar energy began contributing in the same year with a minimal 0.1 TWh. A remarkable surge occurred in 2021 when nuclear energy contributed an additional 5.4 TWh, although this was followed by a decrease of 1.1 TWh in the next year. This recent fluctuation underscores the importance of steady investment and development in nuclear and other low-carbon technologies for sustainable energy growth in Belarus.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources