Lithuania's current state of electricity consumption in 2024 shows a diverse mix of sources, with a notable emphasis on low-carbon options. More than half of the electricity consumed in Lithuania is generated through clean energy, combining sources like wind, solar, biofuels, and hydropower, which account for almost 47% of the mix. Wind energy alone contributes more than a quarter, showcasing Lithuania's significant investment in this area. Solar energy also plays a substantial role, adding over 11% to the electricity mix. Net imports contribute to about 42%, suggesting strong cross-border energy trade, while close to 12% of electricity is sourced from fossil energy, primarily from gas.
Is Electricity Growing in Lithuania?
Lithuania's electricity consumption per person in 2024, at 4,397 kWh, remains significantly lower than the peak of 7,933 kWh per person recorded in 1991, reflecting a decrease of over 3,500 kWh. Similarly, the generation of low-carbon electricity has seen a decrease from the previous record in 2003, where the output was 4,824 kWh per person, to the current figure of 2,060 kWh. This decline in electricity consumption and generation, particularly in low-carbon energy, indicates that Lithuania's progress towards self-sufficiency and sustainability has not yet rebounded to past levels, which is concerning given the pressing need for clean energy growth globally.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Lithuania should focus on expanding existing wind and solar infrastructure, as these sources are already contributing significantly to the country's electricity supply. Meanwhile, looking at international successes could provide valuable insights. For countries with similar geographic and economic profiles, like Denmark and Greece, prioritizing wind and solar has proven effective. Additionally, Lithuania could look towards countries like Slovakia and the Czech Republic that have harnessed nuclear power to a significant extent. Investing further in nuclear energy could provide Lithuania with a stable and reliable clean energy source, boosting overall low-carbon electricity generation and helping the nation meet future electrification demands.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Lithuania reveals fluctuations over the decades. In the late 1980s, there was a strong growth in nuclear electricity generation, marked by a significant rise each year. However, the 1990s saw notable declines, particularly during the early and mid-part of the decade. The new millennium brought momentary recovery until 2005's substantial downturn. In recent years, growth in wind power, evident in the incremental rises of 2023 and 2024, highlights a positive shift towards more sustainable sources. Nevertheless, the previous reductions in nuclear output remind us of opportunities missed and underscore the importance of securing a robust and diversified low-carbon energy strategy for the future.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.