In the past 12 months, from April 2025 to March 2026, Ecuador's electricity consumption has predominantly been derived from low-carbon sources. Impressively, more than 74% of its electricity came from clean energy. Specifically, a major portion of this, 72.5%, was generated through hydropower, while biofuels contributed approximately 1%. Meanwhile, fossil fuels accounted for around 25%, with gas making up a small 2.7% of the overall energy mix. Net imports played a minimal role in Ecuador's electricity consumption, contributing roughly 1%. The reliance on low-carbon energy signifies Ecuador's commitment to sustainable and green electricity, vital for reducing the environmental impacts associated with fossil fuel consumption.

Is Electricity Growing in Ecuador?

Ecuador has seen a positive trend in its electricity consumption over the latest period. In 2026, the per capita consumption reached 2124 kWh, an increase of 20 kWh from the 2025 record of 2104 kWh per person. Similarly, there is a modest rise in the generation of low-carbon electricity. The latest figure marks an increase to 1573 kWh per person, up from the 2025 record of 1570 kWh. This growth in both total and low-carbon electricity consumption highlights Ecuador's ongoing efforts to boost its energy sustainability and adapt to increased demand, driven by societal advancement and electrification initiatives.

Suggestions

To further enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Ecuador can look toward successful regions for insights. For instance, Denmark and Iowa have effectively harnessed wind energy, generating around 60% and 57% of their electricity, respectively, from this clean source. Meanwhile, France and Slovakia are leaders in nuclear energy, with about 67% and 65% of their electricity from nuclear power. Considering the potential for solar energy, Ecuador could also learn from Nevada and California, which produce approximately a third of their electricity from solar power. By embracing a diverse mix of clean energy technologies, including solar and nuclear, Ecuador can create a more robust and sustainable energy future.

History

Historically, Ecuador has made significant strides in increasing its hydropower capacity. In the last decades, significant growth occurred, notably in 2017 and 2019, when hydropower generation boosted by 4 TWh. However, there have been periods of decline, such as in 2009 and more recently in 2024, when production dropped by 2.1 TWh and 2.7 TWh respectively. Despite these fluctuations, 2025 marked a year of resurgence with an impressive increase of 5.1 TWh in hydropower generation. This historical emphasis on hydropower has been crucial for Ecuador in maintaining a low-carbon electricity supply, but a more balanced approach incorporating solar and nuclear power could ensure greater stability and growth in the future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Apr 2025 – Mar 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.