Electricity in El Salvador in 2023

Currently, El Salvador's electricity generation is characterized by a strong reliance on low-carbon energy sources, with more than 66% of its electricity coming from clean sources. Notable contributors to this green energy mix are hydropower and geothermal energy, each accounting for approximately 20% of electricity production. Meanwhile, solar energy is also making a significant contribution, providing around 14% of the energy mix. In contrast, the use of fossil fuels, primarily gas, represents about 28% of the electricity generated, which indicates a substantial, though declining, dependency on polluting sources. This reliance on fossil fuels is still less than a third, yet it is crucial to continue on the path to decreasing emissions further. Notably, net electricity imports contribute around 6% to the mix, supplementing domestic generation.

Suggestions

El Salvador can enhance its low-carbon electricity generation by expanding existing solar energy facilities, given their current substantial contribution. Looking at other nations could provide valuable insights. For instance, Uruguay has achieved more than a third of its electricity demand from wind power, which hints at the potential for El Salvador to explore wind as a complementary low-carbon source alongside solar. Examining how Uruguay leverages its wind resources could pave the way for El Salvador to implement similar strategies, particularly in geographic regions conducive to wind energy development. Such initiatives would not only help minimize the role of fossil fuels in El Salvador's energy mix but also promote energy independence and stability.

History

In examining the history of low-carbon electricity in El Salvador, we observe a dynamic trajectory, particularly in hydropower development across the decades. During the late 1970s and early 1980s, hydropower saw variations, with initial growth followed by a slight decline in 1982, offset by subsequent increases. The 1990s played a vital role with modest gains in hydropower, yet occasional drops, such as in 1997, illustrate the fluctuating nature of water-dependent generation. Entering the 21st century, notable years include 2000, where the introduction of biofuels marked a diversification of clean energy. More recently, since 2020, there have been positive developments, particularly with strides in solar energy, indicating diversification within the low-carbon sphere. Therefore, El Salvador's trajectory underscores an ongoing commitment to advancing its sustainable energy portfolio.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources