In 2022, electricity consumption in Ukraine comprised mainly low-carbon sources, with more than half generated through nuclear power. Low-carbon electricity, primarily from hydropower and solar, made up just over 70% of the total electricity mix. On the fossil energy side, nearly a quarter of the electricity was produced using coal, while gas contributed around 5%. The use of wind energy was minimal, with just slightly more than 1% coming from this source. As such, while Ukraine’s reliance on clean energy is notable, there remains room for further enhancement in diversifying and maximizing the low-carbon energy outputs.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember, Energy Institute and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Ukraine?
Ukraine's electricity consumption has experienced a concerning decline. In 2022, the average electricity use per person was approximately 2767 kWh, which is significantly lower than the historical high of 5746 kWh per person recorded in 1988. This represents a decrease of nearly 3000 kWh per person over this period, highlighting a significant contraction in electricity consumption. Moreover, low-carbon electricity generation also fell from its previous high; the recent figure of 1966 kWh per person marked a drop of almost 500 kWh per person compared to the 2021 record. This downward trend points to challenging circumstances in terms of electricity generation and consumption.
Suggestions
To rejuvenate and enhance electricity generation, Ukraine can expand its existing nuclear capacity, given its proven contribution to the national grid. The country can take cues from France, where nuclear energy accounts for almost 70% of electricity generation. Emulating such practices could drastically boost Ukraine’s low-carbon electricity generation. Besides nuclear, focusing on solar energy can be beneficial, learning from places like Chile and Nevada, where solar energy constitutes a substantial part of the electricity mix. Additionally, observing the success of wind energy in countries like Denmark and regions like Iowa, where wind power forms a significant share of electricity generation, Ukraine could also consider increasing its wind energy capabilities as part of a more diverse, low-carbon energy strategy.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Ukraine shows fluctuations, particularly with nuclear energy. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, nuclear generation saw some increase despite a major decline in 1986. The late 1990s brought growth to both nuclear and hydroelectric power, but the following years saw periods of nuclear reduction, notably in 2009, 2013, and again in 2022. Although there were moments of increasing nuclear output, such as in 2010 and 2021, the general trend has been inconsistent. Solar energy brought a modest yet positive shift in 2020, highlighting potential for diversification. This historical volatility emphasizes the need for robust strategies to ensure a stable, expanding base of low-carbon electricity generation.
