In the year 2022, Honduras demonstrated a strong commitment to low-carbon electricity sources, with more than half of its electricity coming from low-carbon energy. Hydropower was a significant contributor, accounting for almost a third of the country's generated electricity at around 33%. Biofuels and solar power both held notable shares, contributing approximately 10% and 10% respectively, with wind power making up about 6% and geothermal energy providing close to 3%. Meanwhile, electricity derived from fossil fuels constituted just over a third, representing about 36% of the country's energy mix. Net imports were minimal at roughly 2%. This balanced energy profile highlights Honduras's ongoing efforts in promoting low-carbon and sustainable electricity generation while still maintaining a reliance on fossil fuels.
To further increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Honduras could consider embracing diverse energy technologies like nuclear power and expanding its wind and solar capabilities. By looking at successful examples, such as Slovakia's impressive 60% nuclear electricity generation and similar achievements in countries like France and Ukraine, Honduras can explore nuclear power development to strengthen its sustainable energy portfolio. Additionally, Honduras can take a cue from Denmark and Uruguay, where wind power constitutes 59% and 33% of their electricity generation, respectively. Such strategies could significantly help in diversifying Honduras's energy sources and reducing the reliance on fossil fuels, thus mitigating the negative impacts of climate change and air pollution.
Historically, Honduras has seen a series of developments in its low-carbon electricity sector, particularly within hydropower. The late 1980s witnessed gradual increases in hydropower electricity generation. However, the years spanning the late 1990s to the early 2000s were marked by fluctuations, including some decreases, indicating potential challenges in the sector during that period. The recent decade has been more promising, with notable expansions in various low-carbon sources. For instance, there was a resurgence in hydroelectric growth beginning in 2009, supplemented by significant contributions from biofuels and remarkable solar improvements starting in 2015. By 2018, wind energy was incorporated into the mix, further enhancing the sustainable energy framework of the country. These advancements suggest a positive trajectory toward a cleaner and more resilient electricity system for Honduras in recent years.