In 2023, Nicaragua's electricity consumption is characterized by a significant reliance on clean sources, with a slight majority of the total electricity being generated from low-carbon options such as geothermal, hydropower, wind, and biofuels. Together, these clean energy sources contribute to over half of the nation's electricity supply, demonstrating an impressive commitment to sustainable energy practices. Noteworthy contributions within this category come from biofuels which account for a considerable 16%, followed by geothermal, hydropower, and wind energy, each contributing around one-tenth of Nicaragua's electricity. While low-carbon energy dominates, fossil fuels still make up about a quarter of the electricity generation, requiring attention to reduce their negative impact on the environment. Moreover, net imports account for a fifth of the electricity, indicating a dependence on energy from beyond its borders.
Data sources used on this page include Ember, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Nicaragua?
Recent data indicates that electricity consumption in Nicaragua is experiencing a positive, albeit modest, growth trajectory. As of 2023, the nation's electricity usage stands at 806 kilowatt-hours per person, which marks a slight increase of 7 kWh per person from the prior year's record. However, this rise in overall electricity usage has not been matched in the low-carbon segment, which has seen a decrease to 413 kWh/person, a drop from the previous record in 2021. This decrease of 25 kWh/person in low-carbon generation highlights a need for Nicaraguan policymakers to reconsider their energy priorities, emphasizing the expansion of clean energy generation to maintain and ideally increase the share of low-carbon electricity.
Suggestions
To augment its low-carbon electricity generation, Nicaragua could expand its existing wind energy infrastructure, which already plays a significant role in its energy mix. Observing successful regions can provide useful insights; for instance, South Dakota and Iowa have achieved substantial electricity generation from wind, reaching more than half of their total electricity. Additionally, while nuclear energy is absent from Nicaragua's current mix, learning from countries like France or Slovakia—where nuclear energy constitutes a predominant share—could inspire future diversification. In tandem, embracing solar energy could take inspiration from Nevada and California, where solar powers close to a third of the electricity supply. Utilizing these successful strategies could elevate Nicaragua's low-carbon electricity generation significantly.
History
Historically, Nicaragua has seen various fluctuations in its low-carbon electricity generation. During the 1970s and early 1980s, changes in hydropower capacity were observed, initially positive in 1972 but with setbacks by 1977 and 1983. A resurgence in hydropower occurred in the late 20th and early 21st century, with incremental increases leading to notable growth in 2008 and 2020. Geothermal energy saw a notable boost starting in 2012 with a continuous upward trajectory. Wind energy experienced a rapid ascension starting in 2013, though it saw some setbacks in 2016 and 2020. Biofuels started contributing more significantly in 2019 and 2021. These shifts suggest an evolving energy landscape in Nicaragua, with potential for continued development in the forthcoming years.
