In 2025, El Salvador's electricity consumption depicts a promising inclination towards low-carbon energy sources, with over 62% of its electricity coming from clean sources. Specifically, geothermal energy contributes to almost 18% and hydropower to a similar extent of 17%. Solar also significantly contributes, accounting for around 16% of the electricity consumption, while almost 10% is generated from biofuels. Wind energy, though contributing close to 2%, is still in its nascent stages. Despite low-carbon sources forming the majority, fossil fuels still contribute a considerable 36% to the country's electricity, indicating room for improvement in transitioning towards a cleaner energy mix.
Data sources used on this page include Ember, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in El Salvador?
However, recent data reveal a downturn in El Salvador's electricity usage. In 2025, per capita consumption plummeted to 668 kWh from its earlier record of 1315 kWh the previous year. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation per person saw a sharp dip to 419 kWh from 891 kWh in 2024. Such declines, both in overall and low-carbon electricity consumption, are concerning as they represent a potential challenge in meeting future demands and achieving further electrification—inhibiting progress toward sustainable growth, combating climate change, and offsetting pollution from fossil fuels.
Suggestions
In addressing sustainable electricity generation, El Salvador can benefit from expanding existing solar capacities, given its already significant presence in the energy mix. Furthermore, looking at successful regions reveals avenues for deploying other low-carbon technologies. For instance, North Macedonia's impressive solar generation of nearly 49% of its electricity sets an excellent benchmark for solar potential. Additionally, France and Slovakia, each deriving about two-thirds of their electricity from nuclear sources, present compelling cases for including nuclear energy in El Salvador's strategy. Embracing such strategies could efficiently reduce the dependency on fossil fuels and contribute to a greener, more sustainable electricity landscape.
History
Historically, El Salvador has seen fluctuations in low-carbon electricity generation, notably within the hydropower sector. The late 20th century experienced moderate shifts, such as a significant reduction in hydroelectric power in 1997 and 2000, and another downturn in 2009. In contrast, recent years have introduced more diversity, with solar energy entering the mix notably in 2020 and making a significant impact. However, 2025 was marked by declines across multiple low-carbon sources, including a drop in hydropower, geothermal, and solar electricity production. Recognizing these historical patterns presents valuable lessons, underscoring the importance of maintaining steady progress in low-carbon energy development to secure a sustainable energy future for El Salvador.
