In Ecuador, the state of electricity consumption in 2024 reveals a strong orientation towards low-carbon sources. Over 70% of the electricity is generated from low-carbon sources, with hydropower alone accounting for more than two-thirds of the total electricity mix. Fossil fuels contribute to just over a quarter of Ecuador's electricity, about 28%, with gas making up a minimal share. Biofuels, while classified as a low-carbon source, account for a small fraction of the overall electricity generation and do not play a prominent role. The country's reliance on low-carbon sources for a significant majority of its electricity is commendable, especially in the context of global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change.
Is Electricity Growing in Ecuador?
Despite this strong low-carbon foundation, Ecuador is experiencing a worrying decline in per capita electricity consumption. The latest figures for 2024 indicate an average consumption of 1851 kWh per person, which demonstrates a decrease from a previous high in 2023. This decline of 63 kWh per person is concerning as it may impact the country's economic development and the quality of life of its citizens. Even more troubling is the decrease in low-carbon electricity generation, where the numbers have fallen significantly by 160 kWh per person compared to the highest point in 2021. This stagnation reflects a need for renewed focus on expanding the generation capacity to meet future demands and to support sustainable growth.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Ecuador can look to successful examples globally, and particularly in regions with similarities, for guidance. For example, Uruguay has impressively integrated wind into its energy mix, generating over a quarter of its electricity from wind power. This shows the potential for expanding wind energy in a country similar to Ecuador. Additionally, Chile's advancements in solar energy, where it generates more than a fifth of its electricity from solar, highlights the potential benefits of investing in solar infrastructure. Furthermore, many countries, such as France and Slovakia, have effectively utilized nuclear energy to secure a substantial portion of their electricity from low-carbon sources. By exploring these successful models, Ecuador can diversify its energy mix and enhance its capacity for sustainable development.
History
Historically, Ecuador has experienced fluctuations in its low-carbon electricity generation, primarily driven by hydropower. In the early 1980s, the growth was modest, but it picked up markedly from 2007 onwards. The years 2016 and 2017 saw substantial increases, with generation growing by 2.7 TWh and 4.2 TWh, respectively. However, there have been periods of decline, such as in 2009 and notably in 2024, where generation decreased by 2.1 TWh and 2.7 TWh each. These fluctuations highlight the challenges and the need for consistent investment in expanding and modernizing infrastructure to ensure a resilient and adaptable supply of clean electricity for the country. The focus should remain on harnessing stable and reliable sources like nuclear and solar to complement traditional hydropower and ensure a steady supply of low-carbon electricity.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.