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Electricity in Estonia in 2024

Global Ranking: #46
38.3% #94 Low-carbon electricity
43.75 % #49 Electrification
6568.20 kWh #45 Generation / person
368.21 gCO2eq/kWh #94 Carbon Intensity

As of 2024, Estonia's electricity generation landscape is composed of a mixture of sources, with low-carbon energy making up a significant portion. Over one-third of the country's electricity comes from clean energy sources, with wind, solar, and biofuels being the primary contributors. Wind energy accounts for nearly 13% of electricity generation, solar energy contributes roughly 10%, and biofuels add almost 15%. Fossil fuels still play a notable role, accounting for nearly 30% of Estonia's electricity generation. Net imports form another critical segment, about a third of the total, which complements domestic production. These numbers emphasize the importance of continuing to expand low-carbon energy to further reduce dependence on fossil fuels, which have adverse effects on climate and air quality.

Suggestions

To bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, Estonia can focus on scaling up its wind and solar installations. Given that wind energy already plays a significant role in Estonia, there is potential to match or even exceed Denmark's impressive 52% electricity generation from wind. Additionally, lessons can be drawn from other successful countries in nuclear energy generation. Slovakia, with 62% of its electricity from nuclear sources, offers a comparable model for Estonia, given geographical and socio-economic similarities. Estonia might also take cues from neighboring Lithuania, which has capitalized on wind energy advancements, reaching a 26% contribution to its electricity generation. These examples illustrate paths that Estonia might follow to amplify its share of clean energy.

History

The gradual rise of low-carbon electricity in Estonia has been marked by incremental developments over the years. From the late 2000s, biofuels started making a noticeable impact, with consistent positive annual changes in electricity generation until a few dips in recent years. The past decade has seen various years of increase in wind power generation, with 2024 marking a significant spike of 0.4 TWh. Solar energy also shows a promise, with a gradual but steady increase, particularly in recent years. These developments highlight Estonia's journey toward diversifying its electricity mix, favoring more sustainable options to ensure a cleaner, greener energy future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Maximum Imports

Data Sources

For the years 1985 to 1989 the data source is Energy Institute.
For the years 1990 to 2017 the data source is IEA.
For the year 2018 the data sources are IEA and IEA (imports/exports).
For the year 2019 the data source is IEA.
For the years 2020 to 2024 the data source is Ember.
For the months 2024-03 to 2025-01 the data source is ENTSOE.
For the month 2025-02 the data source is Ember.
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