Electricity in Uruguay in 2023/2024

Uruguay is a remarkable example in the realm of sustainable electricity, as almost all of its electricity—an impressive 99.3%—is derived from low-carbon sources. Hydropower contributes more than half of this at roughly 50.4%, underscoring the country's strategic utilization of its abundant natural resources. Wind energy is also a significant contributor, generating about one-third of the electricity, while biofuels and solar power collectively add almost 16%. This robust low-carbon network not only satisfies domestic electricity needs but also enables Uruguay to be a notable net exporter of electricity, thereby aiding neighboring countries in reducing their emissions footprints. The next phase of environmental progress for Uruguay is the electrification of other economic sectors, such as transportation, heating, and industry, all of which will demand a substantial augmentation in clean electricity supply.

Suggestions

To further bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, Uruguay can focus on expanding its existing wind energy capabilities. Given that wind power already makes up a significant portion of its clean electricity, scaling up these operations could yield considerable benefits. The country's geographic characteristics lend themselves well to wind farms, which can be further developed to produce even more electricity without contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. In addition to wind, incorporating nuclear power into the energy mix could provide a steady and reliable source of low-carbon electricity. Such strategies will not only support the growing domestic electrical needs but also elevate Uruguay's role in regional electricity export and emission reduction efforts.

History

Uruguay's journey toward low-carbon electricity has seen significant developments over the decades. In the 1980s, there were substantial increases in hydroelectric power, with notable rises in 1980 and 1983. This trend continued intermittently in the 1990s, highlighted by a major boost in hydro generation in 1990. The early 2000s also saw fluctuations, but it was in 2007 that Uruguay experienced a significant increase, followed by another in 2010. In the last decades of the 21st century, particularly after 2013, hydroelectric contributions saw various ups and downs, culminating in a notable increase in 2024. This dynamic history underscores Uruguay's adaptability and commitment to maintaining its position as a leader in clean electricity, illustrating a complex but successful journey of harnessing low-carbon sources to their full potential.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources