In 2023, Guatemala's electricity consumption paints a picture of reliance on low-carbon sources, with over 70% of its electricity derived from clean energy. Hydropower is the dominant force, contributing to more than 40% of the electricity. Biofuels also play a substantial role, accounting for close to a quarter, while wind and geothermal each contribute about 2.5%, and solar provides nearly 2%. However, fossil fuels still account for roughly a quarter of electricity production, with coal being a significant component at 17%. Importantly, net imports are minimal, making up less than 4% of consumption.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Guatemala?
Looking at the trends, Guatemala's electricity consumption per person has unfortunately decreased, with recent figures showing it at about 770 kWh per person, down from the record high in 2021 of 880 kWh. This decline is concerning as it suggests an overall reduction in electricity consumption, with low-carbon sources specifically experiencing a drop from 646 kWh per person in 2021 to 553 kWh per person. This setback in electricity usage, especially supported by clean sources, is difficult to witness as it contradicts the global need for increased electrification powered by low-carbon energy. Guatemala must work towards reversing this trend to support sustainable growth and meet future energy demands.
Suggestions
To accelerate low-carbon electricity generation, Guatemala can learn from other regions that have successfully increased their clean energy capacity. For solar energy, countries such as Chile and Cyprus have been able to generate over 20% of their electricity from this clean source, reflecting a possible model for Guatemala to emulate. When it comes to nuclear energy, which is also crucial for reliable and consistent low-carbon power, states in the U.S. like New Hampshire, generating more than half of its electricity from nuclear, offer valuable insights. By investing in and adopting these strategies, Guatemala can boost its low-carbon electricity contribution, moving further towards a sustainable and resilient energy future.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Guatemala has seen its share of ups and downs. Since the mid-1980s, hydropower has generally been a growth area, with notable increases in electricity generation during the late 1980s and late 2000s. However, there were setbacks such as in 2009, 2015, 2018, and especially in 2023, which saw a significant reduction in hydropower output. A promising development happened in 2010 and 2021, with biofuels making notable gains. Despite occasional declines, these enduring efforts showcase Guatemala’s potential to expand its low-carbon electricity capacity. Moving forward, steady investments in clean technologies will be vital for overcoming setbacks and driving sustainable energy production.
