Georgia has made remarkable strides in its electricity generation, with more than 80% of its electricity now coming from low-carbon sources. This impressive figure is bolstered primarily by hydropower, which forms nearly the entire share of Georgia's clean energy portfolio at around 79%. The reliance on fossil fuels, predominantly in the form of natural gas, has been reduced significantly to just under 20% of total electricity generation. Looking ahead, the nation faces the dual opportunity and challenge of further boosting its sustainable electricity supply to accommodate the electrification of other sectors, such as transport, heating, and industry, which will demand a substantial increase in electricity consumption.
Is Electricity Growing in Georgia?
Despite the encouraging shift toward low-carbon electricity, Georgia's overall electricity consumption per person has not seen an increase. In fact, the latest data from 2024 indicate a decline to 3755 kWh per person, compared to the previous record of 3903 kWh per person in 2022. On the brighter side, the generation of low-carbon electricity has reached a new peak at 3006 kWh per person, up from the prior record of 2876 kWh per person in 2023. This boost in clean energy is commendable, highlighting Georgia's commitment to a sustainable electricity future, even as it grapples with a decrease in the total electricity consumption growth, which is essential for meeting future needs.
Suggestions
To continue increasing low-carbon electricity generation, Georgia can prioritize investments in solar and nuclear energy. Solar power, with its rapidly decreasing installation costs and technological advancements, offers a viable pathway for the country to harness its abundant sunshine effectively. Expanding nuclear power can provide Georgia with a stable, large-scale source of clean electricity that is crucial for reducing dependency on fossil fuels, thereby protecting the environment, improving air quality, and combating climate change. By strategically incorporating these energy sources into its grid, Georgia can secure a resilient and sustainable electricity supply to meet growing demands.
History
In retrospect, hydropower has been the cornerstone of Georgia's low-carbon energy history. The 1990s were marked by a notable decline in hydropower generation, with significant decreases in 1992 and 1995. However, some recovery was observed by the late 1990s and early 2000s, with sporadic increases balancing out some earlier declining trends. The decade following saw mixed results, with notable increases in 2002, 2007, and 2010 offset by decreases in 2006, 2011, and 2012. Recent years, particularly from 2013 onwards, have shown a more consistent upswing, culminating in incremental gains in 2021, 2022, and 2024, underscoring a positive trajectory for Georgia's clean energy sector. Harnessing past lessons and aligning with future ambitions can guide Georgia toward a greener and more prosperous era.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.