Electricity in El Salvador in 2023

Based on our forecast model, which includes actual data for the first 6 months of 2023 and projected data for the remaining 3 months, the current state of electricity consumption in El Salvador is quite distinctive. The nation's total electricity generation surpasses more than 8 TWh, with clean, low-carbon energy sources producing the majority. Specifically, low-carbon sources account for around 5.24 TWh, which includes solar (1.11 TWh), geothermal (1.59 TWh), and hydro (1.62 TWh) energy. In contrast, fossil energy sources contribute significantly less, totaling approximately 2.19 TWh, with a large share from gas (1.44 TWh). When comparing to the global average electricity consumption, which stands at 432 watts per person, El Salvador faces challenges given its relatively lower electricity generation. This may affect the country's economic growth, technological advancements, and overall quality of life.

Suggestions

El Salvador can considerably increase its low-carbon electricity generation by expanding its existing solar infrastructure, given the country's effective utilization of solar energy. Learning from countries that have successfully amplified their low-carbon electricity, El Salvador might consider diversifying its energy portfolio as seen in other regions. For example, India generates 113 TWh from solar power, indicating a robust infrastructure for solar energy which El Salvador can emulate. Similarly, countries like Germany (137 TWh from wind) and Brazil (96 TWh from wind) showcase the feasibility and benefits of wind energy. Additionally, nuclear energy, producing substantial amounts in nations like the United States (775 TWh) and France (336 TWh), should be considered for its efficiency and reliability as a steadfast energy source.

History

Examining the history of low-carbon electricity generation in El Salvador, the data shows several fluctuations primarily in hydropower. During the early 1980s, there were modest changes with significant variability in hydropower output: a decrease of 0.3 TWh in 1982 followed by an increase of 0.3 TWh in 1983. The mid-1990s saw similar trends, with hydro dropping by 0.3 TWh in 1994 and then rising by 0.3 TWh in 1995. Within the 2000s, hydropower presented a mixed trajectory with both drops and gains; however, there were notable additions such as the rise of 0.6 TWh in 2010 and the integration of solar energy producing 0.4 TWh in 2020. Overall, these patterns indicate a dynamic but gradually increasing usage of clean energy sources, underlining the need for strategic investments in technologies like solar, wind, and nuclear for sustainable growth.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources