Currently, Bolivia's electricity consumption presents a mixed picture between fossil and low-carbon energy sources. A little over 60% of its electricity is derived from fossil fuels, with gas alone making up a significant majority within that category. On the cleaner side, almost 40% of Bolivian electricity comes from low-carbon energy sources. The largest contributor to this low-carbon sector is hydropower, which accounts for more than a quarter of the total electricity generation. Additional contributions come from wind, biofuels, and solar power, each comprising about 3% or less of the country's electricity. While the reliance on fossil fuels remains, there is a noteworthy portion of electricity that comes from cleaner, low-carbon sources.
Data sources used on this page include Ember, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Bolivia?
Electricity consumption in Bolivia is experiencing positive growth. As of 2024, Bolivians consume 998 kWh of electricity per person, an increase from the prior record of 975 kWh per person set just a year earlier in 2023. Moreover, the generation of low-carbon electricity per individual has witnessed an improvement as well, climbing from a previous peak of 350 kWh per person in 2021 to 379 kWh in 2024. This growth, although modest, represents a step in the right direction toward meeting the burgeoning demand for clean electricity solutions essential for sustainable growth and clean energy transitions.
Suggestions
To further boost Bolivia's low-carbon electricity generation, the country could draw inspiration from successful regions that excel in solar and nuclear power, amongst others. For instance, Nevada's effective deployment of solar technology, generating a significant share of its electricity from solar energy, serves as an example for Bolivia to expand its solar capacities. Additionally, although Bolivia currently lacks nuclear power plants, integrating nuclear energy can provide a steady and reliable source of electricity, as seen in countries like France, where nuclear power accounts for the majority of its electricity generation. Uruguayan wind advances also offer a nearby example that could inspire increased investment in Bolivia's wind power capabilities. By considering these approaches, Bolivia can enhance its clean energy portfolio and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, leading to a cleaner and more sustainable future.
History
Examining the historical trajectory of low-carbon electricity in Bolivia reveals incremental yet significant developments primarily in hydropower. In the early years of this data, changes were minor and occasionally negative, reflective of the challenges in maintaining consistent hydropower outputs. Notably during the late 2010s, there were marked improvements, as seen in substantial increases in hydroelectric power generation in 2017, 2018, and 2019. After a brief period of variability, this momentum appears to continue with another increase in 2024, along with the introduction and growth of wind power in 2022. Despite the fluctuations, these developments over the years speak to an ongoing commitment to strengthening Bolivia's low-carbon electricity generation, paving the way for more reliable and sustainable energy options.
