In 2024, Latvia's electricity consumption shows a significant reliance on low-carbon sources, with more than half of the electricity coming from clean energy. Hydropower is the dominant source, contributing almost 43%. Biofuels, solar, and wind also contribute to the clean energy mix, supplying about 10%, 7%, and 4% respectively. On the other hand, Latvia's electricity production still depends on fossil fuels for approximately 22%, all from gas. In addition, Latvia imports around 15% of its electricity to meet demand. The importance of transitioning fully to low-carbon sources is paramount to counteract climate change pressures and reduce air pollution, given the country's current energy landscape.
Is Electricity Growing in Latvia?
In terms of growth, Latvia's electricity consumption per person in 2024 was slightly lower than its peak in 2021, dropping from 4041 kWh/person to 4027 kWh/person, signifying an overall stagnation. More concerning, however, is the decline in low-carbon electricity generation per person, which fell from a previous high of 2812 kWh/person in 2017 to 2550 kWh/person in 2024. This decline in clean energy growth raises worries, particularly in a world that increasingly relies on electricity to power a sustainable future. It's crucial that Latvia reverses this trend to meet future energy demands through sustainable means.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Latvia can draw lessons from other nations with successful implementations of green energy, particularly nuclear and solar. For similar countries like Slovakia and Finland, nuclear energy plays a significant role in their low-carbon strategies, comprising 62% and 38% of their electricity mix, respectively. Embracing nuclear energy could provide Latvia with a reliable and continuous power source. Additionally, Latvia can learn from countries like Lebanon and Chile, where solar energy accounts for a substantial share of electricity, suggesting a potential solar strategy for Latvia given its developing solar sector. By investing in both nuclear and solar technologies, Latvia can reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and gain energy independence.
History
Historically, Latvia's low-carbon electricity generation has experienced considerable fluctuations, primarily driven by changes in hydropower output. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Latvia saw significant variations with some years, like 1990, seeing increases, while others, such as 1991 and 1992, faced declines. The new millennium brought a mixed pattern until a high point in 2017, when hydropower surged significantly. This growth, however, was short-lived as declines followed in subsequent years. These fluctuations highlight the need for a more stable and reliable low-carbon electricity strategy, emphasizing the inclusion of nuclear and solar power to ensure energy security and sustainability.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.