In the period from September 2025 to August 2026, Portugal's electricity consumption demonstrated a strong inclination towards low-carbon sources, which accounted for more than two-thirds of the total electricity generation. Specifically, hydropower contributed almost a third, while wind energy made up a little over a fifth of the total consumption. Solar energy, on the other hand, provided close to one-seventh of the electricity. Fossil fuel sources made up a smaller portion, with natural gas responsible for slightly more than a tenth and oil almost negligible. Notably, Portugal also relies on net imports, which covered around one-seventh of their electricity needs. The data showcases Portugal's commitment to expanding its clean electricity portfolio, effectively counterbalancing its dependence on imports and fossil fuels.

Is Electricity Growing in Portugal?

Examining recent consumption trends raises concerns about the growth of electricity usage in Portugal. The latest figures show an annual per capita consumption of 5926 kWh, marking a decline from the previous record of 6056 kWh in 2025. Similarly, low-carbon generation has decreased, with the latest data indicating 4186 kWh per person, down from the 4265 kWh recorded in 2025. These reductions of 129 kWh per person in total electricity consumption and 79 kWh per person in clean energy generation suggest a deceleration in growth, which is alarming in the face of increasing global demands for electricity driven by electrification and technological advancements like AI.

Suggestions

To bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, Portugal should consider expanding its already significant investments in wind and solar energy. The experiences of countries like Iowa and Denmark, where wind accounts for more than half of the electricity generation, demonstrate the potential for wind power. Additionally, investing in solar energy expansion would align Portugal with regions like Nevada and California, where solar contributes to about a third of the electricity mix. Furthermore, looking at the success of nuclear energy in countries like France, Slovakia, and Ukraine, Portugal might explore nuclear energy as a viable option to enhance its clean energy ambitions and ensure energy security while mitigating the negative impacts of fossil fuels.

History

Historically, Portugal's low-carbon electricity generation has experienced fluctuations, especially in hydropower. In the early years, such as 1977, there were significant increases in hydroelectric output, while the late 1980s and 1990s saw downturns, such as the decrease of 6.4 TWh in 1989. The early 2000s presented a mix of gains and losses, with notable increases in 2003 and 2006. More recently, the trend has remained inconsistent, with considerable boosts in years like 2010, 2013, and 2016, and declines in intervening years. These variations point to the need for more stable and reliable sources of low-carbon electricity, underscoring the importance of diversifying beyond hydropower to include more robust investments in solar and nuclear energy, which offer promising long-term stability and growth.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Sep 2025 – Aug 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.