Chile's electricity consumption in 2025 reflects a strong shift towards low-carbon sources, which represents more than two-thirds of the total energy mix. Solar energy contributes significantly to this, providing around a quarter of the total electricity. Hydropower is also a major player, accounting for almost a fifth of the overall generation. Wind energy complements this low-carbon mix by offering more than a tenth. Coupled with biofuels and other clean energy sources, Chile is making notable strides in reducing its reliance on fossil fuels, which still account for a third of its electricity consumption. Among fossil sources, coal and gas are the most significant contributors, making up notably more than half of the fossil energy share, followed by oil, which contributes close to none of the overall mix.
Data sources used on this page include IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Chile?
Despite Chile's strong focus on clean energy, overall electricity consumption is facing challenges, as evidenced by a decline in usage compared to previous years. The latest data for 2025 shows an average consumption of 4454 kWh per person, which is a slight decrease from the 2022 record of 4532 kWh per person. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation has experienced a decline, with the latest figures showing 2979 kWh per person, which is 168 kWh less than the record set in 2024. This decline in both overall and low-carbon electricity generation raises concerns, as sustained growth in clean electricity is crucial for meeting future demands and reducing environmental impacts.
Suggestions
To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Chile can look towards expanding solar and wind capacities, building on the significant contributions these technologies already make. Taking inspiration from regions such as Denmark and states like Iowa and South Dakota, where wind energy constitutes over half of their electricity supply, Chile can aim for similar ambitious targets. Additionally, incorporation of nuclear energy, as seen in France and Slovakia's high reliance on nuclear power, can provide a stable and substantial boost to Chile's low-carbon electricity generation. By integrating lessons from these leading regions, Chile can solidify its clean energy future and secure sustainable growth in electricity supply, catering to the increasing demands of electrification and emerging technologies.
History
Chile's journey towards low-carbon electricity began gaining momentum in the early 1990s with significant expansions in hydropower. Throughout the decade, hydropower experienced mixed growth, with gains in some years, such as 1991 and 1992, and setbacks in others, like 1998 and 1999. The beginning of the 21st century saw further hydropower expansions, though the growth was inconsistent, marked by occasional declines. Biofuels made their mark in 2011 with moderate contributions. The recent decade has focused on embracing solar energy, with substantial expansions noted in 2021 and 2022. However, 2025 saw a notable decline in hydroelectricity, indicating a need for diversification and strengthening of other low-carbon sources, such as solar and nuclear, to ensure the robustness of Chile's clean electricity landscape.
