Electricity in Luxembourg in 2022
In 2022, the electricity consumption in Luxembourg was decisively low-carbon, with this type of energy accounting for more than 14% of the total. The major contributing low-carbon sources were biofuels at roughly 5.5%, wind energy at nearly 5%, and solar energy at just over 3%. Additionally, hydropower, although making up less than 1% of the consumption, contributed to the overall low-carbon energy mix. Fossil energies, on the other hand, made up only a fraction of the total, with gas around 1.3% and other fossil sources barely 2.4%. However, a staggering 83% of the electricity consumed in Luxembourg was net imported, with the peak value of these imports reaching 93%.
Suggestions
To increase the production of low-carbon electricity, Luxembourg can draw from the experiences of countries successful in this regard. France, Slovakia, and Belgium, for example, produce over half of their electricity through nuclear means, a measure Luxembourg could consider. Wind energy, too, could prove a promising investment, considering Denmark's success with a 52% wind-generated electricity supply. Additionally, Luxembourg's geographic location and weather patterns could potentially suit solar energy development, mirroring the success seen in sunny nations such as Chile and Yemen, where approximately 17% of electricity is solar-generated.
History
Tracing back in history, the focus of low-carbon electricity in Luxembourg has predominantly been on hydro power. In the mid to late 1980s, the country saw a slight shift towards this type. However, the progress fluctuated over the years, with a noticeable drop in production in the years 1999 and 2000. After steady fluctuations over the following decade, the focus started shifting towards other sources of low-carbon energy. By the start of the 21st century, wind energy began emerging, showing its first significant increase in 2017. Similarly, biofuels made their mark in 2019 and showed consistent growth throughout 2020, demonstrating Luxembourg's expanded focus in sustainable practices for electricity generation.