Lithuania's electricity consumption in 2023 was largely dependent on net imports, which accounted for over half of its total supply. Low-carbon energy generation contributed to just over 40% of its electricity requirements, with wind being the leading source and providing nearly a fifth. Hydropower, biofuels and solar power contributed 12%, 5% and almost 5% respectively to the low-carbon electricity mix. Lithuanian's dependence on fossil energy was relatively minimal, represented by gas that accounted for less than 5%.
To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Lithuania could look to expanding its existing wind power capabilities. Given that wind energy already makes up a significant portion of its low-carbon energy sources, it presents a substantial opportunity for development. Learning from countries such as Denmark, where wind energy represents close to 60% of its electricity, could provide valuable insights. Furthermore, Lithuania could also harness the potential of nuclear power to supplement its low-carbon energy mix, similar to countries like France and Slovakia where nuclear energy contributes to 66% and 61% of their electricity supply respectively.
The history of low-carbon electricity in Lithuania has seen periods of fluctuation, particularly in the field of nuclear energy. In the late-80s, there was a rise in nuclear energy production with increases in 1988 and 1989. However, the early 90s witnessed a clear decline, marked by major decreases in 1992 and 1993, followed by a significant drop in 1994. Yet, this was counteracted by a marked surge in 1995. Despite some ups and downs in the subsequent years, the overall trend of nuclear energy in Lithuania has been inconsistent. On a brighter note, in 2023, there was an uplifting boost in the generation of hydropower and wind energy, indicating a positive turn towards the future of low-carbon energy in the country.