In 2023, Guatemala's electricity consumption is predominantly made up of low-carbon sources, which constitute more than 7 out of 10 kilowatt-hours consumed in the country. Hydropower is the leading source of clean electricity, contributing to close to half of the total consumption. Biofuels also play a significant role, accounting for nearly a quarter of the electricity mix. Among other low-carbon contributors, wind and geothermal each make up about 2%, with solar energy responsible for nearly 2% as well. Despite this strong emphasis on sustainable energy, fossil fuels still account for approximately a quarter of electricity consumption, with coal being the dominant fossil source at 17%. This presents both a challenge and an opportunity for further transitioning to even cleaner electricity sources, especially with the goal of reducing the negative impacts of fossil fuels, like climate change and air pollution.
Is Electricity Growing in Guatemala?
Regarding the growth of electricity consumption in Guatemala, the latest figures indicate a downturn rather than growth. In 2023, electricity consumption per person has decreased to 769 kWh from a record high of 881 kWh in 2021, marking a reduction of 112 kWh per person. Low-carbon electricity generation per person also saw a similar decline, dropping from 646 kWh in 2021 to 553 kWh in 2023. This decline of 93 kWh per person is concerning, given the global drive toward increased electricity generation to support growing demands, particularly through the development of sustainable and clean energy technologies. The contraction in consumption suggests an urgent need for initiatives that promote the growth of both overall electricity consumption and low-carbon generation.
Suggestions
To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Guatemala can draw inspiration from countries with successful clean energy strategies. For instance, Denmark has championed wind energy, achieving 52% of its electricity from this resource. Guatemala could similarly capitalize on its geographic diversity by expanding wind and solar capacities, much like Chile, which generates 22% of its electricity from solar. Increasing the share of solar energy, alongside enhancing hydropower infrastructure, can further solidify Guatemala's commitment to a sustainable electricity future. Moreover, Guatemala could explore adopting nuclear energy, as demonstrated by France, which obtains a substantial 68% of its electricity from nuclear sources, showing that this is a viable path toward high levels of clean energy generation.
History
Throughout the decades, Guatemala has witnessed variable growth in low-carbon electricity generation. Starting from the late 1980s, hydropower experienced significant expansions in 1986, 1990, and throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. However, the late 2000s and early 2010s saw fluctuations, with a notable dip in 2009 and resurgences and declines periodically until 2023. Similarly, biofuels saw growth with ups and downs, peaking in 2010 and facing periodic challenges thereafter. The year 2017 marked a significant boost in hydropower generation, but recent years have seen some setbacks, notably a decline in 2023. This historical variability indicates the potential and challenges inherent in expanding low-carbon energy sources, underscoring the need for sustained and strategic investments.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.