In 2023, Guatemala's electricity consumption reflects a significant reliance on low-carbon sources, accounting for more than two-thirds of the total energy generation. Hydropower stands out prominently, contributing approximately 41% of the electricity, while biofuels make up about a quarter of the total. Together, they form the backbone of Guatemala's clean electricity supply. On the other hand, fossil fuels still play a notable role, representing roughly a quarter of the electricity generated, with coal being the primary contributor at 17%. Meanwhile, wind and geothermal energy both add a small yet valuable share, around 2.4% each, and solar energy slightly trails behind at nearly 2%. Net imports account for a minor fraction of the total, indicating a predominantly domestic approach to electricity generation.
Data sources used on this page include Ember, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Guatemala?
Despite this diverse energy mix, Guatemala has experienced a concerning decline in electricity consumption per person by about 112 kWh compared to the peak levels reached in 2021, dropping from 881 kWh/person to 769 kWh/person in 2023. This indicates a regression in overall electricity consumption, coupled with a decrease in low-carbon electricity generation per person from 646 kWh to 553 kWh in the same period. The reduction of 93 kWh in low-carbon generation signals a back-step in Guatemala's pursuit of sustainable energy solutions, an alarming trend given the global need for clean energy expansion.
Suggestions
To reverse this trend, Guatemala should focus on amplifying its low-carbon electricity generation by learning from regions that effectively utilize solar and nuclear energy. Countries such as France and Slovakia have successfully leveraged nuclear power, with more than two-thirds of their electricity being generated from this clean source. Similarly, states like Nevada and California illustrate high solar energy integration, achieving up to 33% and 29%, respectively. By studying and implementing strategies from these regions, including perhaps increasing investment in solar infrastructure and exploring the potential for nuclear projects, Guatemala can significantly augment its low-carbon electricity capacity. Emphasizing these clean energy pathways will not only help offset the reliance on fossil fuels but also align Guatemala’s energy generation with global sustainability goals.
History
Historically, Guatemala has seen fluctuating trends in its low-carbon electricity generation. In the late 1980s through the 2000s, hydropower experienced steady increments, such as a notable 0.8 TWh increase in 1986, with several smaller gains in the late 1990s and early 2000s. A brief downturn occurred in 2009, but the subsequent years saw a revival, peaking notably in 2017 with a 1.8 TWh jump. Recent years, however, have reflected some instability, such as a 1.4 TWh decline in hydropower in 2023 despite gains in biofuels in 2021. This historical backdrop highlights the urgent need for Guatemala to bolster its electricity generation strategy, focusing particularly on adopting stable and scalable clean energy sources such as solar and nuclear to ensure long-term resilience and sustainability.
