Denmark's electricity consumption in 2024 showcases a commendable emphasis on low-carbon energy sources. Over two-thirds of the country's electricity is generated through clean methods, with wind energy leading the way at just above 52%. This significant reliance on wind power is supplemented by biofuels, which contribute approximately 17%. Solar energy, while not as dominant, still accounts for about 10% of the total electricity mix, pushing Denmark's clean energy usage to nearly 80%. On the other hand, the country has managed to minimize its dependence on fossil fuels, which now stand at just under 11%, split predominantly between coal and gas. Meanwhile, Denmark also engages in net imports to complement its electricity needs.
Is Electricity Growing in Denmark?
Despite Denmark's impressive progress in low-carbon electricity generation, its overall electricity consumption has declined since its peak. The latest figures reveal a consumption rate of 6,572 kWh per person, a decrease of more than 3,600 kWh from the record high in 1996. However, there is a silver lining in the growing contribution of low-carbon electricity, which rose to 5,226 kWh per person in 2024 from the previous record the year before. This growth of nearly 300 kWh per person in low-carbon generation is a promising trend amid the otherwise declining overall consumption.
Suggestions
To further enhance Denmark's low-carbon electricity generation, expanding existing wind and solar infrastructure is vital, given their proven track record in the country. Denmark can also learn from regions with successful low-carbon strategies. For example, Iowa's impressive wind energy generation of 63% underscores the potential for Denmark to increase its wind capacity. As Denmark considers diversifying its clean energy portfolio, it can take cues from countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy makes up more than 60% of electricity production. Embracing a combination of expanded solar capacity and introducing nuclear energy could bolster Denmark's leadership in clean electricity generation.
History
Denmark's history with low-carbon electricity has been marked by continuous growth and optimization. The late 1990s and early 2000s saw wind energy make significant gains, with noteworthy increases recorded in 1998 and 2000. The steady ascent of wind energy continued throughout the 2000s and saw another surge in the early 2010s, with notable increases in 2011 and 2014. The trend persisted, and by the late 2010s and early 2020s, wind power experienced fluctuations with some declines, possibly due to variability in investment or resource availability. Nonetheless, biofuels and solar began making strides, especially with solar seeing accelerated growth from 2022 onward. This history highlights Denmark's resilience and potential to further expand its green energy footprint.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.