Electricity in Greenland in 2022

In 2022, electricity consumption in Greenland primarily relied on low-carbon sources, particularly hydropower, which contributed almost 77% of the total electricity generated. Fossil fuel sources accounted for the remaining 23%, showing that Greenland has a significant reliance on clean energy but still has room for improvement. The predominant use of hydropower places Greenland in a commendable position in terms of sustainable electricity generation, as it means that most of the nation's energy is achieved with minimal greenhouse gas emissions.

Suggestions

To further increase low-carbon electricity generation, Greenland can learn from countries that successfully utilize a combination of various clean energy sources. Denmark, for example, generates over 60% of its electricity from wind, showcasing the potential for wind energy in regions with similar climatic conditions, which Greenland shares. Meanwhile, France relies heavily on nuclear energy, achieving a substantial 67% of its electricity from nuclear power. These examples indicate that Greenland could explore and invest in both wind and nuclear energy to diversify its clean energy portfolio, reduce fossil fuel dependency, and bolster its electricity resilience.

History

Looking back at the history of low-carbon electricity in Greenland, hydropower has consistently been the mainstay for the past two decades. From 2001 to 2008, there were no significant changes in hydroelectric generation, maintaining a stable output. A notable increase occurred in 2009 and 2011 when hydroelectric generation rose by 0.1 TWh each year. However, the following years showed either stability or minor fluctuations, culminating in a slight decline in 2022. Despite these variations, hydropower has remained a reliable source of low-carbon electricity and demonstrates Greenland's long-standing commitment to sustainable energy practices.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources