In 2024, Ecuador's electricity consumption exhibits a noteworthy incline towards low-carbon sources, with more than 70% of the electricity coming from such energy types, prominently featuring hydropower at approximately 69%. This reflects a strong commitment to clean energy in the country. Conversely, slightly more than a quarter of the electricity is still generated from fossil fuels, primarily accounting for 28%, with gas contributing a modest 3% and biofuels, although technically a low-carbon source, presenting a minimal share of around 1.5%. This energy mix highlights Ecuador's reliance on hydropower but also underscores the opportunity to further diminish fossil fuel dependency in favor of other sustainable energy sources.
Is Electricity Growing in Ecuador?
However, the overall electricity consumption trend in Ecuador is not as promising, with a notable decrease from its previous record levels. In 2024, the electricity consumption per person dropped to 1834 kWh from a higher 1914 kWh the previous year—a change of 80 kWh per person. Similarly, there has been a decline in low-carbon electricity generation per person from 1475 kWh in 2021 to 1304 kWh in 2024, showing a reduction of 171 kWh. Such a decline is concerning as it suggests a stall or reduction in electricity growth, particularly in the low-carbon sector, which is paramount for Ecuador's sustainable energy future and its role in combating climate change.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Ecuador can glean valuable lessons from various regions excelling in solar, wind, and nuclear energy. Countries like France and Slovakia demonstrate significant roles that nuclear energy can play, with impressive shares above 60%. Solar is another promising avenue, drawing inspiration from Lebanon's commendable 31% contribution. These examples illuminate the potential for Ecuador to diversify and enhance its electricity generation portfolio by integrating solar and potentially exploring nuclear energy, tailored to its context, thus reducing reliance on fossil fuels and further ensuring a cleaner, sustainable energy future.
History
The evolution of low-carbon electricity in Ecuador has predominantly hinged on hydropower with alternating growth and declines over the decades. In the 1980s, hydropower saw modest expansions, with notable years like 1984 experiencing an increase of 1.5 TWh. However, the 1990s displayed fluctuation, including a regrettable decrease in 1995. The early 21st century painted a more dynamic picture, with astounding progress in certain years, notably the years 2017 and 2019, with a surge of 4.2 TWh each. Unfortunately, in recent years, setbacks have been evident, as marked by the 2024 reduction of 2.7 TWh. This cyclical nature of hydropower expansion, occasionally impacted by factors such as climate conditions, highlights the need for Ecuador to stabilize and supplement its clean electricity growth with diverse low-carbon sources.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.