Electricity in Chile in 2023/2024

As of the latest data spanning December 2023 to November 2024, Chile has made noteworthy strides in its electricity mix. Low-carbon energy sources dominate the landscape, accounting for about 70% of the country's electricity generation. This impressive share predominantly arises from hydropower and solar sources, which contribute nearly one-third and around one-fifth to the total, respectively. Wind energy also plays a significant role, offering roughly 12% to this clean energy tally. However, fossil fuels still represent about 30% of the electricity generation, underscoring an area ripe for improvement to minimize climate change effects and air pollution. Coal and gas are the primary fossil contributors, at nearly 16% and 13% respectively.

Suggestions

To further bolster its low-carbon electricity footprint, Chile can expand its existing solar and wind capacities, as they already contribute significantly to its power generation. By nurturing its wind energy sector, Chile could take cues from Denmark, where wind accounts for almost three-fifths of electricity generation. Similarly, enhancing its solar infrastructure could position Chile alongside nations adept at harnessing clean energy. Although Chile currently lacks nuclear energy, introducing this source could significantly enhance its low-carbon credentials, as seen in countries like France, Slovakia, or Ukraine, where nuclear power dominates the electricity mix. The robust, reliable nature of nuclear power makes it an attractive candidate for a low-carbon future.

History

Reflecting on Chile's historical trends in low-carbon electricity generation, hydropower has been a cornerstone since the 1990s, with varying degrees of annual growth. The early 1990s saw strong increases in hydropower output, with a peak rise in the year 2000. However, the subsequent decade experienced a mixture of growth and setbacks, notably in 2007 and 2010, when hydropower saw significant declines. Recent years have seen a more stable increase in hydropower, with solar energy emerging prominently in the early 2020s, showcasing steady growth since its notable uptick in 2021. This diversified progress marks Chile's transition toward a sustainable electricity future, embracing solar, hydropower, and potential future opportunities with wind and nuclear energy.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources