Electricity in Guatemala in 2022
Global Ranking:
#96
67.3% #45 Low-carbon electricity
739.02
kWh #159 Generation / person
As of 2022, electricity consumption in Guatemala comes from a blend of low-carbon and fossil energy sources. The majority of the country's electricity, more than 67%, is derived from low-carbon or clean energy sources. Specifically, hydropower contributes the largest share at nearly 39%, while biofuels account for around 22%. Smaller contributions come from wind (about 2.6%), geothermal (approximately 2.5%), and solar energy (around 1.8%). Fossil fuels also play a significant part, covering roughly 32% of the electricity mix, with coal being the dominant fossil fuel at about 26%.
Suggestions
To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Guatemala can learn from countries that have successfully integrated high shares of nuclear and wind energy. For instance, Uruguay generates 36% of its electricity from wind, a similar transition could significantly boost Guatemala's clean energy portfolio. Additionally, considering nuclear energy can be highly effective, as seen in France, where 67% of electricity comes from nuclear sources, or Slovakia, where the figure stands at 60%. Investing in solar energy might also be beneficial, illustrated by Greece's approach, where 22% of their electric power is sourced from solar energy. These examples suggest a diversified approach, including wind, solar, and potentially nuclear, could help Guatemala further reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Guatemala indicates a fluctuating but overall upward trend. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, hydropower saw modest increases, with notable growth spurts in the late 2000s and 2017, followed by some declines in subsequent years. Biofuels also had varying growth, particularly adding significant generation in 2010 and 2018 but experiencing some decreases as well. The periodic changes reflect efforts to enhance the clean energy sector despite facing some challenges. The consistent push toward low-carbon options suggests a commitment to increasing sustainable electricity generation in the future.
Electricity Imports and Exports
Balance of Trade
Data Sources
For the years 1971 to 1979 the data source is
World Bank.
For the year 1980 the data source is
EIA.
For the years 1981 to 1985 the data source is
World Bank.
For the years 1986 to 1987 the data sources are
World Bank
and
IEA (imports/exports).
For the years 1988 to 1989 the data source is
World Bank.
For the years 1990 to 1991 the data source is
EIA.
For the years 1994 to 1995 the data source is
IEA.
For the years 1998 to 1999 the data source is
IEA.
For the years 2000 to 2022 the data source is
Ember.