In 2024, Peru's electricity consumption reveals a strong inclination toward low-carbon sources, marking positive steps in the shift towards cleaner energy. More than half of the country's electricity comes from low-carbon sources, accounting for approximately 59%. A significant portion, around 50%, is derived from hydropower. Other clean energy sources include wind at a modest 6% and solar contributing just 2%. Meanwhile, fossil fuels still play a substantial role, comprising about 41% of electricity generation, with the majority coming from gas. This mix highlights a reliance on both clean and fossil energy but shows Peru's ongoing efforts to expand low-carbon electricity share.
Is Electricity Growing in Peru?
Peru's electricity consumption is demonstrating growth, with 2024 setting a new record at 1869 kWh per person, an improvement of 30 kWh per person compared to 2023. The expansion is mirrored in low-carbon electricity, which saw an increase from the 2019 record of 1061 kWh per person to 1107 kWh per person in 2024. This growth of 46 kWh per person in low-carbon generation is particularly encouraging for the country's sustainable energy goals. A steady increase in electricity consumption indicates a positive trajectory, fostering an environment for further electrification and sustainable development in Peru.
Suggestions
To further enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Peru can look to successful regions for inspiration. Countries with a strong emphasis on nuclear power like France, where nuclear energy constitutes 68% of its electricity, provide a model for integrating this reliable and low-carbon energy source. Boosting solar energy can also be beneficial, learning from countries such as Lebanon, where solar accounts for 31% of electricity generation. The success of Denmark in wind energy, providing 52% of their electricity, highlights the potential of enhancing wind power in Peru. By adopting strategies from these regions, Peru can accelerate its transition to a cleaner energy mix, enhancing its energy security and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
History
Historically, Peru's low-carbon electricity has primarily come from hydropower, with significant growth occurring in certain years. The late 1980s and early 1990s saw notable increases in hydropower capacity, despite a slight decline in 1992. The early 2000s to mid-2010s marked a period of consistent growth, with notable expansions in 2006 and 2017. More recently, while there were declines in 2020 and 2022, 2024 emphasized revitalization with a 2.9 TWh increase and a supplementary contribution from wind energy, which grew by 1.5 TWh. This historical evolution indicates both the foundation laid by hydropower and the potential for diversification with new clean energy sources continuing to emerge.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.