Honduras currently meets more than half of its electricity needs through low-carbon energy sources, accounting for more than 60% of its total electricity consumption. Within this clean energy sector, hydropower constitutes nearly a third of the total electricity output, while biofuels provide around 10%. Solar energy contributes almost 9%, and wind accounts for roughly 6%. Geothermal energy, though present, makes a smaller contribution of close to 3%. Meanwhile, fossil energy still provides a significant portion of the electricity mix at about 38%. Net imports add a small fraction of less than 2%, highlighting a reliance on domestic electricity generation. The country's ongoing dependence on fossil fuels is a cause for concern due to the associated environmental risks, such as climate change and air pollution.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Honduras?
Current trends indicate a slight decline in electricity consumption in Honduras, as seen by the decrease in per capita electricity usage from 1,146 kWh in 2019 to 1,120 kWh in 2023. This dip represents a drop of 27 kWh per person, reflecting a possible energy efficiency improvement or reduced usage. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation also saw a modest decline, dropping from 703 kWh per person in 2021 to 677 kWh per person more recently. The decrease by 25 kWh in low-carbon electricity per person could suggest challenges in maintaining or expanding green energy infrastructure and capacity. Given the anticipated growth in electricity demand for digital advancements and electrification, these declines pose a considerable challenge.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Honduras could benefit from observing successful practices in regions excelling in solar and nuclear energy. For example, Chile achieves 25% of its electricity from solar energy, highlighting the potential for solar expansion in regions with abundant sunshine. Meanwhile, countries like France derive a staggering 67% of their electricity from nuclear power, demonstrating the scalability and reliability of this energy source. Investing in both solar and nuclear would diversify Honduras' electricity mix and decrease its reliance on fossil fuels. Drawing from innovative methods practiced in similar sunny regions could substantially bolster Honduras' low-carbon electricity output, propelling the nation toward a sustainable and resilient future.
History
Historically, Honduras has experienced fluctuations in its low-carbon electricity generation. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, hydropower saw incremental growth, with continued positive additions until the mid-2000s. However, these gains were occasionally offset by declines, such as those in the early 2000s. The new millennium brought about advancements, with solar power picking up pace in the mid-2010s and a notable boost in wind power in 2018. The year 2021 marked a significant resurgence in hydropower growth, adding an impressive 1.1 TWh of electricity. This history underscores the potential for continued expansion, especially when focused on sustainable energy solutions such as nuclear and solar power. The ups and downs in hydropower highlight the necessity for diversified low-carbon strategies to ensure energy stability and progression.
