Uruguay has achieved an impressive milestone in clean electricity generation, with a remarkable 98.43% of its electricity coming from low-carbon sources over the last 12 months, from October 2024 to September 2025. Hydropower contributes the largest portion of clean electricity with nearly half of the country's needs. Additionally, wind energy supplies more than a third, biofuels account for almost 14%, and solar rounds out the mix with close to 4%. Fossil fuel sources account for just under 2% of the total electricity generation, with gas being the only significant fossil fuel source at around 1%. Uruguay's commitment to low-carbon electricity extends beyond its borders, as the nation is a substantial net exporter of electricity, facilitating the reduction of emissions in neighboring regions. However, the next challenge is electrifying transport, heating, and industry sectors, which will require a significant increase in electricity consumption.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Uruguay?
Despite its achievements, Uruguay currently faces a setback in electricity consumption growth. The latest available data reveals a decrease in electricity usage to 3,957 kWh per person in 2025, a drop from the previous record of 4,710 kWh per person in 2019. This marks a reduction of 753 kWh per person from the historic high. Low-carbon electricity generation has experienced a similar decline, falling by 815 kWh per person compared to 2019's record level. This slowdown in growth is concerning, especially as the world embraces electrification and increasing electricity demands driven by advancements such as AI technologies. To sustain its leadership in low-carbon electricity, Uruguay needs to revitalize growth in its electricity sector.
Suggestions
To address this challenge and increase low-carbon electricity generation, Uruguay could further expand its wind energy infrastructure, which is already a significant component of its clean energy mix. Given the large-scale success in wind generation, continuing this trajectory could potentially lead to even greater output and therefore help meet the growing demand for electricity. Although not detailed in the recent statistics, considering the adoption or expansion of nuclear and solar energy can significantly bolster Uruguay's capacity for sustainable electricity. These clean technologies are crucial steps forward, offering reliable, low-carbon solutions that align with Uruguay's environmental commitments and economic needs.
History
The historical development of low-carbon electricity in Uruguay shows dynamic changes, particularly in the contribution of hydropower, which significantly expanded in the 1980s and 1990s. Throughout the 1980s, there were notable increases in hydroelectric generation, followed by some volatility in the late 1990s and early 2000s with disparities in production. The 2000s saw further fluctuations, with both significant increases and decreases, yet several key jumps in hydroelectricity were observed. Notably, 2007 and 2010 were significant years for growth. Despite some declines in the last few years, such as in 2020 and more recent decreases in biofuels, in 2024, hydropower generation again saw a notable increase, showcasing the continued importance and potential of hydropower in Uruguay's green energy landscape. Continuing to invest in a diverse set of low-carbon technologies, including nuclear and solar energy, could strengthen Uruguay's capacity to handle fluctuations and ensure a steady growth in clean electricity generation.
