In 2024, Chile's electricity generation showcases a strong commitment to low-carbon sources, with nearly 70% of the electricity coming from clean energy. Hydropower accounts for almost a third of this green electricity, while solar power contributes more than a fifth, highlighting Chile's robust solar infrastructure. Wind energy adds another 12% to the low-carbon mix, demonstrating its importance in the country's energy landscape. In contrast, fossil fuels such as coal and gas combined make up around 30% of the energy mix, a stark reminder of the continued reliance on these sources that contribute to climate change and air pollution.
Is Electricity Growing in Chile?
Electricity consumption in Chile shows signs of complexity. Despite a decrease in the total average electricity use per person from the peak level in 2022, falling by 143 kWh per person to 4513 kWh, there is a promising increase in low-carbon electricity generation per person. The latest low-carbon figures reached 3154 kWh per person, a substantial rise of 282 kWh from the previous record in 2023. This suggests a positive shift towards greener electricity, even though overall consumption has declined. These trends underscore Chile's focus on reducing its dependency on fossil fuels and enhancing its sustainable electricity capacity.
Suggestions
To further increase low-carbon electricity generation, Chile could expand its existing solar and wind energy infrastructure. These sectors are already significant contributors and could see further growth. Learning from regions like Iowa and South Dakota, both of which generate a sizable portion of their electricity from wind power, Chile might harness its geographical advantages to increase wind capacity. Additionally, incorporating lessons from countries with strong nuclear power usage, such as France and Slovakia, which generate a substantial percentage of their electricity from nuclear energy, Chile could explore the potential of nuclear power as a clean and reliable energy source to diversify its low-carbon portfolio further.
History
Chile's journey in low-carbon electricity began in the 1990s with notable expansions in hydropower. The early 1990s saw a surge, with significant increases recorded in 1991 and 1992. However, the late '90s encountered a few setbacks with declines, particularly in 1998 and 1999. The 2000s brought resurgence, especially between 2000 and 2005, with noticeable growth in hydroelectric capacity. The last decade marked a dynamic phase for Chilean electricity, evidenced by recent victories such as the increases in solar and wind power in 2021 and 2022, and further expansions in solar in 2023. These developments point to a robust commitment to a greener future, with solar and wind energy paving the way. However, it is clear that continued growth in these areas, as well as potential investments in nuclear power, will be essential to maintaining and enhancing Chile's clean energy trajectory.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.