In 2025, Latvian electricity consumption remains a tapestry woven from diverse sources. Low-carbon electricity, which makes up almost 60% of the total, highlights the country's commitment to sustainable energy. Among these green sources, hydropower holds the lion's share at more than 40%, supported by solar at close to 9% and wind at approximately 3%. Notably, biofuels contribute around 6%, steadily adding to Latvia's clean energy portfolio. However, reliance on fossil fuels, specifically gas, remains significant at nearly 22%. Additionally, Latvia balances its energy mix with net imports, which account for almost a fifth of its electricity, underlining the country's interdependence with surrounding regions.
Data sources used on this page include Energy Institute, ENTSOE, Eurostat and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Latvia?
Despite the relatively high share of low-carbon energy, Latvia's overall electricity consumption per person has seen a slight decline. In 2025, it stands at 3,863 kWh per person, a decrease from the historical peak recorded in 2018 at 3,960 kWh per person. This decline of 97 kWh per person is mirrored in the realm of low-carbon electricity, where the latest figure is 2,272 kWh per person, down by 540 kWh from its peak in 2017. Such trends, which reflect a reduction rather than growth, are concerning in a time when the global demand for clean energy is imperative in combating climate change and addressing future needs driven by electrification and technological advancement.
Suggestions
To boost its low-carbon electricity production, Latvia could draw inspiration from leading regions in nuclear and wind energy. Countries such as France and Slovakia demonstrate the viability of nuclear power, contributing more than 65% to their electricity mix, underscoring the opportunities nuclear energy presents for a sustainable future. Moreover, wind-rich countries like Denmark and states like Iowa, where wind energy constitutes more than 55% of electricity generation, showcase the potential of harnessing abundant wind resources. Latvia could bolster its energy independence and sustainability by exploring avenues to increase nuclear and wind energy contributions while also scaling up solar energy infrastructure. This strategic pivot away from fossil fuels is essential not just environmentally but also economically, as it reduces the long-term carbon footprint and positions the country as a leader in the green energy transition.
History
Historically, Latvia's low-carbon electricity journey has experienced its share of variability, particularly in hydropower. The late 1980s and early 1990s saw fluctuations, with significant changes recorded during this period. After some reductions in the early 1990s, Latvia witnessed increases in the late 1990s, such as an impressive 1.4 TWh increase in 1998, only to face substantial reductions again the following year. This cyclical trend persisted through the 2000s and into the 2010s, with particular spikes seen in 2012 and 2017, the latter marking a robust increase of nearly 2 TWh. The most recent data from 2023 indicates a positive shift with an increase of 1 TWh, echoing a historical pattern of recuperating from declines. These past shifts underscore the need for diversification and resilience in Latvia's energy infrastructure, ensuring a steady progression towards a low-carbon future.
