Over the period from October 2024 to September 2025, Chile's electricity consumption has primarily relied on low-carbon sources, which account for just over two-thirds of the total production. Hydropower contributes significantly at about a quarter, followed closely by solar power, which generates nearly a quarter as well. Wind energy, representing more than a tenth of the electricity mix, adds further to Chile's clean energy portfolio. In contrast, fossil fuels make up slightly less than a third of the total electricity consumption, with coal and gas each accounting for around one-sixth and one-seventh, respectively. Biofuels contribute a smaller portion to the low-carbon energy mix, close to one-twentieth. The heavy reliance on low-carbon energy showcases Chile's commitment to sustainable energy solutions.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Chile?
The current state of electricity consumption in Chile, with a per capita usage of 4355 kWh for the year 2025, indicates a decrease when compared to the previous high in 2022 of 4532 kWh per person. This represents a decline of 177 kWh per individual. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation also saw a reduction, with the latest figures at 2963 kWh per person compared to the 2024 record of 3147 kWh per person. This decrease of 184 kWh per person in low-carbon shares signals a concerning trend, particularly as demand for green energy solutions grows to combat climate change and pollution. The decline in both total and low-carbon electricity generation raises questions about Chile's ability to meet future energy demands sustainably.
Suggestions
To address these challenges and promote the growth of low-carbon electricity generation, Chile should focus on expanding its existing solar and wind infrastructure. These technologies already account for a significant portion of clean electricity in the country and have immense potential for further development. Moreover, Chile can look towards successful regions that have harnessed a mix of low-carbon technologies. For instance, countries like France and Slovakia have achieved high nuclear energy shares, contributing significantly to their low-carbon electricity portfolios. Similarly, states like Iowa and South Dakota demonstrate that wind energy can compose a substantial fraction of electricity generation. By adopting a diversified approach that includes the expansion of solar and wind, alongside potential nuclear development, Chile can enhance its low-carbon energy capacity and secure a more sustainable energy future.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Chile reflects dynamic shifts over the decades. The early 1990s saw considerable growth in hydropower, with significant increases in 1991 and 1992. However, into the late 1990s and early 2000s, hydropower experienced fluctuations, including notable declines in 1998 and 1999. The mid-2000s brought renewed growth for hydro, and in the early 2010s, biofuels emerged with a notable jump in generation in 2011. By the early 2020s, solar energy began to rise rapidly, with substantial increases in 2021 and 2022, indicating a promising shift towards more sustainable energy sources. Recent years have seen continued, albeit varied, progress in hydropower and solar energy, with both growing significantly in 2023 before a decline in hydropower in 2025. The past patterns in Chile's low-carbon electricity generation underscore the necessity for continued investment in diverse clean energy technologies to maintain momentum and ensure resilience against future declines.
