Electricity in Spain in 2023

Spain currently sources more than three-quarters of its electricity from low-carbon sources. The major contributors to this mix are wind, which generates nearly a quarter of the electricity, nuclear, and solar, both accounting for just over a fifth of the electricity each. Fossil fuels, mainly gas, generate a little over a fifth of the electricity, while coal plays a very minor role with only around 1.5%. Low-carbon sources, which include hydropower and biofuels, make up the rest of the energy mix, producing about 15% and 2% of the electricity respectively.

Suggestions

To further increase low-carbon electricity generation, Spain can look towards expanding existing major technologies like nuclear, wind, and solar energy. Spain can draw inspiration from countries like France and Slovakia that generate a majority of their electricity from nuclear energy. Similarly, Denmark's use of wind energy, which accounts for nearly 60% of electricity generation, can serve as a good model. Spain could also apply relevant transferable practices from other nations who have made significant strides, particularly those with similar climatic and geographical conditions.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in Spain has proven the reliability of these sources, despite occasional fluctuations. For instance, the late seventies saw a significant boost in hydropower, adding 18.7 TWh to the grid in 1977. However, hydro production experienced a dip in 1980 and 1989, only to recover in the subsequent years. Nuclear energy also added a substantial 12.4 TWh in 1984. Unpredictable weather patterns have caused swings in hydro energy production, with significant increases and decreases seen throughout the 2000s. Despite some lower yielding years, hydro production spiked once again in 2023, adding 21.2 TWh. The consistent presence of these low-carbon energy sources over the last few decades affirms their viability and critical role in Spain's energy mix.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Maximum Imports

Data Sources