Electricity in Lithuania in 2023/2024

In the latest twelve-month period spanning from November 2023 to October 2024, Lithuania has demonstrated a strong commitment to low-carbon electricity generation. Over half of the electricity consumed in Lithuania—almost 50%—is generated from low-carbon sources, indicating a significant shift towards greener energy. Wind energy stands out as a major contributor, providing more than a fifth of Lithuania's electricity. Hydropower and solar energy also play substantial roles, contributing around 12% and 10%, respectively. Biofuels round off this segment with a 6% contribution. Impressively, the reliance on fossil fuels such as gas is limited to just over 5%, a clear indication that Lithuania is on the right track toward minimizing its carbon footprint. The substantial share of net imports, comprising over 40%, may suggest potential opportunities to increase domestic low-carbon electricity production further.

Suggestions

To boost its low-carbon electricity share, Lithuania could consider expanding its successful wind energy efforts. Denmark serves as an inspirational model, generating over half of its electricity from wind. This strategy could significantly enhance Lithuania's clean energy generation capacity. Additionally, exploring nuclear energy—an approach that has proven effective in countries with similar geographical and economic contexts such as Slovakia and Bulgaria—could provide Lithuania with a reliable low-carbon energy source. These countries generate more than 40% of their electricity from nuclear energy, illustrating the potential of this clean energy source to substantively complement existing wind and solar resources and reduce the need for electricity imports.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in Lithuania is marked by a notable journey, particularly with nuclear energy, which experienced varying levels of production over the years. In the late 1980s, nuclear electricity saw considerable growth, peaking with significant increases. However, the early 1990s marked a period of decline, with drastic reductions in nuclear output suggesting a challenge that required serious attention. Despite these setbacks, the late 1990s and early 2000s exhibited a rebound with incremental growth. Nevertheless, 2005 witnessed a sharp decline in nuclear production, pointing to critical decisions that undoubtedly influenced Lithuania’s energy direction. Recently, investments in wind and hydro energy have led to positive growth in green electricity generation, highlighted by a wind energy increase in 2023. These advances indicate Lithuania’s commitment to diversifying its low-carbon energy portfolio and moving toward a sustainable electricity future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Maximum Imports

Data Sources