In 2024, Portugal's electricity consumption is impressively dominated by low-carbon energy, playing a crucial role in providing over two-thirds (approximately 69%) of the nation’s electricity. Wind and hydropower are nearly neck-and-neck, contributing just over a quarter and nearly a quarter respectively, making them substantial sources of clean electricity. Net imports also account for a significant portion of Portugal's electricity mix, nearly a fifth, further supporting the country's low-carbon profile. On the fossil front, they comprise just over 12%, with natural gas making up about 10% and biofuels adding almost 7%. Fossil fuels are steadily being overshadowed by Portugal's commitment to green energy. Solar power is also noted for its contribution, adding almost 12% to the electricity mix. It is clear that the country is making strides towards a cleaner, more sustainable electricity system, although challenges remain in minimizing the reliance on fossil fuels entirely.
Is Electricity Growing in Portugal?
Despite the dominance of low-carbon energy, Portugal's electricity consumption per person is not experiencing growth, having decreased since its 2016 peak. As of 2024, electricity usage stands at 5,431 kWh per person, which marks a decline of 400 kWh per person from the historical peak reported in 2016. However, the share of low-carbon electricity has significantly improved. In 2024, low-carbon generation per person reached 3,773 kWh, a formidable increase of 474 kWh from the previous year’s record, indicating a dedicated shift towards more sustainable sources. It seems that while total electricity consumption has decreased slightly, Portugal is enhancing its reliance on cleaner electricity, showcasing a commendable commitment to environmental responsibility and the battle against climate change.
Suggestions
For a cleaner and more sustainable future, Portugal can focus on expanding its already strong wind and solar energy sectors. Learning from global leaders like Denmark and Iowa, where wind energy contributes over half or more of total electricity generation, Portugal has the potential to increase its wind capacity significantly. Additionally, considering solar energy's rising importance, Norway and Chile's achievements in solar expansion can serve as valuable examples. Furthermore, looking towards nuclear energy’s potential, France's exemplary model of nuclear energy supporting the vast majority of its electricity can offer insights into diversifying Portugal's sustainable energy sources. By leveraging such strategies, Portugal can not only strengthen its domestic green electricity generation but also help alleviate the global reliance on fossil fuels, mitigating the impacts of climate change and air pollution.
History
Throughout Portugal's history of electricity generation, hydropower has been an influential, albeit fluctuating, low-carbon source. In the late 20th century, particularly between 1977 and 1996, hydropower experienced significant fluctuations, with substantial increases in 1996 and 2003 but with simultaneous marked declines interspersed during those years. These oscillations continued into the 21st century, including major gains in 2010 and 2013, followed by notable dips. Most recently, in 2022 and 2023, hydroelectric output has seen a reduction followed by a moderate increase, reflective of the nuanced relationship Portugal has with its natural hydro resources. The country’s sustainable future hinges on balancing these traditional hydro outputs with opportunities for newer, reliable low-carbon sources like solar and nuclear energy. It is imperative that Portugal maximizes these technologies to secure a steadfast path toward abundant, low-carbon electricity.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.