In 2025, Latvia's electricity consumption presents a notable tilt towards low-carbon sources. Clean energy contributes more than half of the consumption, with hydropower dominating at approximately 41%. Solar follows, generating almost a tenth of the total, together with smaller contributions from biofuels and wind. Nevertheless, fossil fuels, specifically gas, still account for nearly 22% of the power mix, indicating room for improvement. Net imports also play a role, covering nearly a fifth of the needs. This current mix underscores Latvia's significant reliance on low-carbon energy but reveals dependence on fossil-based and imported electricity, which could be addressed for future energy autonomy.
Data sources used on this page include Energy Institute, ENTSOE, Eurostat and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Latvia?
When examining Latvia's electricity consumption trends, it is evident that there is no growth in per capita electricity use, which is concerning given the increasing global reliance on electrification. As of 2025, the electricity consumption stands at 3863 kWh per person, a reduction from the peak in 2018 when it was 3960 kWh per person. This not only represents a 96 kWh/person drop but also signals stagnation. More critically, the generation of low-carbon electricity has decreased significantly, with the current output at 2272 kWh/person, falling by 540 kWh/person from its historical high in 2017. Such declines highlight the urgency for Latvia to bolster its low-carbon electricity infrastructure to support future energy demands and mitigate the risks of climate change.
Suggestions
To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Latvia can take inspiration from other successful regions. For example, countries like France and Slovakia are leaders in nuclear energy, with more than 60% of their electricity coming from this clean source. Latvia should consider the construction of nuclear plants to replicate these successful models. Furthermore, embracing solar power, much like North Macedonia and Nevada with their significant solar shares, could substantially boost Latvia's clean energy profile. Wind energy, as evidenced by Denmark and Iowa's successful integration, can also be a focal area for Latvia. Investing in solar and nuclear can offer sustainable solutions to diversify Latvia's electricity mix and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, paving the way for a more sustainable energy future.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Latvia reveals fluctuations, especially in hydropower, throughout the years. The late 1980s saw some highs and lows in hydroelectric generation, with increases in 1989 and 1990 followed by significant decreases, notably a drop in 1991. The late 1990s signed similar volatility, with a significant drop in 1999 after back-to-back years of increase. In contrast, the early 2000s and the subsequent decade marked more stability, with less pronounced fluctuations, though 2017 notably saw a major increase, only to be entirely reversed in the following year. The most recent data from 2023 shows some recovery, but the history indicates the need for a more robust and diverse clean energy strategy that can cushion against such variability and secure a stable and sustainable energy future for the nation.
