Electricity in Denmark in 2023/2024

As of the most recent data spanning from September 2023 to August 2024, Denmark is a global leader in clean electricity, with more than 83% of its electricity coming from low-carbon sources. This achievement highlights Denmark's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and combating climate change. Wind power is the dominant source of low-carbon electricity, contributing over 60%. Solar power also plays a significant role, providing about 10%, while biofuels account for around 12%. On the other hand, only about 17% of Denmark's electricity comes from fossil fuels, with coal, gas, and oil making up most of this share. Denmark's position as a significant net exporter of electricity further emphasizes its contribution to global emission reductions, aiding neighboring countries in their transition to cleaner energy systems. The next major step for Denmark involves electrifying other sectors like transport, heating, and industry to continue the journey towards a more sustainable energy future.

Suggestions

To further enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Denmark can prioritize the expansion of its existing wind and solar energy capacity. Given that wind power already accounts for over 60% of its electricity, continuing to invest in both onshore and offshore wind farms can significantly boost clean energy production. Similarly, doubling down on solar energy projects will help harness the sun's full potential, especially during summer months when solar generation peaks. Besides wind and solar, embracing nuclear energy as a reliable and low-carbon source can offer a stable and substantial increase in clean electricity. These efforts, combined with ongoing investments in technology and infrastructure, will ensure that Denmark continues to lead the world in sustainable energy.

History

Denmark’s journey towards a low-carbon electricity system has seen notable milestones over the decades. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, wind energy began its climb, adding about 0.9 to 1.2 TWh annually between 1998 and 2000. The 2010s marked a period of rapid growth, with significant annual increases in wind and biofuels—highlighted by a 2 TWh surge in wind generation in 2011 and similar increases in subsequent years. However, 2016 saw a brief decline in wind energy by 1.4 TWh, followed by a strong recovery, with substantial contributions from both wind and biofuels in 2017 and 2019. More recently, solar energy has started making its mark with a consistent annual increase of 0.9 TWh since 2022. Despite biofuels seeing a significant decline of 2.7 TWh in 2023/2024, the overall trend demonstrates Denmark's persistent and successful efforts in expanding its low-carbon energy portfolio.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Maximum Imports

Data Sources