In Peru, electricity generation is currently characterized by a significant contribution from low-carbon sources, which make up more than 60% of the electricity mix from September 2024 to August 2025. Hydropower is the dominant low-carbon source, accounting for more than half of Peru's total electricity generation at about 53%. Wind and solar also contribute to the low-carbon mix, albeit on a smaller scale, with wind providing close to 6.5% and solar about 2.7%. On the other hand, fossil energy remains substantial, powering over a third of the electricity consumption in the nation, with gas being the primary contributor, representing almost all of the fossil energy at around 37%. While Peru has commendable low-carbon electricity generation, a shift towards higher shares of wind and solar could further reduce reliance on gas and fossil energy.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Peru?
When it comes to the growth of electricity consumption in Peru, the latest data indicates some concern, showing a recent decline. As of 2025, the per capita electricity consumption stands at 1761 kWh, which is a decrease of 108 kWh/person compared to the previous year's high mark of 1869 kWh/person in 2024. This decline highlights a need for strategic interventions to not only regain previous levels but surpass them to meet growing energy demands. On a positive note, low-carbon electricity generation has achieved a slight increase, setting a new record in 2025 with 1108 kWh/person compared to the previous benchmark of 1107 kWh/person in 2024. This underscores the direction in which Peru should focus its energy development efforts—emphasizing growth in low-carbon technologies.
Suggestions
To enhance its low-carbon electricity portfolio, Peru can learn from other regions and consider expanding its solar and nuclear capabilities. With countries like France, Slovakia, and Ukraine leading the way in nuclear energy, contributing between 55% and 69% to their electricity mixes, nuclear power presents a robust option for sustained, low-carbon electricity generation. Similarly, states like Nevada and Lebanon showcase significant solar contributions, with solar energy comprising around 30% and 31% of their electricity, respectively. Additionally, Uruguay's 34% wind energy generation demonstrates the potential of wind in a region with suitable resources like Peru. By investing in solar and ensuring the implementation of safe nuclear technologies, Peru can significantly bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, improve air quality, and contribute positively to combating climate change.
History
Reviewing Peru's historical trends in low-carbon electricity offers valuable insights into its development trajectory. Starting in the early 1980s, hydropower saw steady growth, with occasional setbacks. A significant boost was seen in 2017 when hydro generation surged by 4.9 TWh, a remarkable feat in this period of development. Although there were dips, like a 2.2 TWh decline in 2022, efforts to rebound were evident in 2024 with a 2.9 TWh increase, accompanied by a notable 1.5 TWh wind energy addition—the first recorded rise for wind in that year. As Peru continues on its path of developing its electricity system, the lessons from its hydropower successes and subsequent diversification into wind illustrate the potential benefits of integrating more sources like solar and nuclear to create a resilient and sustainable electricity grid.
