In 2024, Spain's electricity landscape showcases a promising inclination toward low-carbon energy. More than three-quarters of the country's electricity comes from clean sources, with wind energy leading the pack at around 22%. Solar power closely follows, contributing just over a fifth to the total electricity mix, and nuclear energy also holds a robust share at nearly 20%. Hydropower and biofuels add smaller amounts, with the former contributing about 12% and the latter accounting for just over 2% of the total production. In contrast, fossil energy sources like gas and coal make up less than a quarter of Spain's electricity, with gas being the main contributor at around 22% and coal offering a negligible share of less than 2%. This composition underlines Spain’s significant strides in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and embracing green electricity solutions.
Is Electricity Growing in Spain?
Despite the substantial presence of low-carbon electricity, overall electricity consumption in Spain has not grown; in fact, it's somewhat decreased over the years. As of 2024, electricity consumption stands at around 5836 kWh per person, which marks a decline from the historic high of 6786 kWh per person in 2008. This drop of 951 kWh per person indicates a reduction in overall electricity usage. However, it's noteworthy that low-carbon electricity usage per person has actually seen growth, reaching 4479 kWh per person, which is an increase of 276 kWh compared to the previous year’s record. This uptick in clean electricity generation is a positive signal that Spain is moving in the right direction, even though the overall electricity consumption has diminished.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity production, Spain can capitalize on expanding its nuclear, wind, and solar capabilities. Countries rich in nuclear and wind energy, like France, Slovakia, and regions like Iowa and South Dakota, demonstrate what's achievable with investment and strategy. Spain could particularly look to France, where nuclear plants produce about 68% of electricity, and Iowa, where wind provides 63%, as inspirational models for optimizing and expanding its own infrastructure. By replicating successful policies and technological advancements from these regions, Spain can enhance its energy security and further decrease reliance on fossil fuels, contributing significantly to both its economy and environmental goals.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Spain has seen remarkable shifts, especially with hydropower and solar. The early approach to increasing hydroelectric capabilities began with significant growth in the late 1970s, then tapered into fluctuations throughout the subsequent decades with alternating years of increases and declines. Particularly notable were the 1990s and early 2000s, characterized by both considerable growth and contractions in hydroelectric output. In recent years, there has been a noticeable surge in solar power, highlighted by a substantial increase of nearly 13 TWh in 2023, solidifying Spain's commitment to sustainable energy solutions. While breakthroughs in solar power indicate a positive trajectory, the historic patterns of volatility in hydropower hint at the need for a stable and diverse energy mix. Implementing lessons from past trends and global best practices can ensure Spain continues to evolve as a leader in clean, low-carbon electricity generation.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.