In 2023, Venezuela's electricity consumption is distinctly characterized by a strong reliance on low-carbon energy, with hydropower making up practically all of this category. Over 78% of Venezuela's electricity comes from low-carbon sources, specifically hydropower, which contributes nearly all to this category, while fossil fuels account for about 22% of the electricity consumption, primarily driven by natural gas. This dominance by hydropower significantly reduces the nation's carbon footprint compared to countries heavily dependent on fossil fuels, showcasing the substantial role of clean energy in its energy mix.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Venezuela?
Despite this predominant reliance on low-carbon electricity, Venezuela's overall electricity consumption per capita has been on a downward trend. In 2023, each person consumes approximately 2931 kWh of electricity annually, which represents a significant decline from the 2008 record of 4252 kWh per person. This decline of 1322 kWh per person indicates a concerning stagnation in electricity growth, which is also reflected in the low-carbon sector itself. The latest low-carbon electricity generation sits at 2297 kWh per person, down from 3096 kWh per person in 2008, marking a reduction of 798 kWh per person. Such declines highlight a need for renewed focus and investment in electricity generation to meet modern needs and demands.
Suggestions
To elevate its low-carbon electricity generation further, Venezuela can learn from regions that have successfully integrated solar and wind power alongside their existing hydropower infrastructure. Adopting nuclear energy, as seen in countries like France and Slovakia, where it constitutes over half of the electricity mix, could provide a robust and stable supplement to hydropower. Additionally, solar energy has proven effective in regions with similar climates, such as California and Chile, which generate close to a third and a quarter of their electricity from solar, respectively. By embracing these clean energy technologies, Venezuela can ensure a more diversified and resilient low-carbon energy future.
History
Looking back at the historical trends of low-carbon electricity in Venezuela, the past decades have predominantly witnessed fluctuations in hydropower generation. In the late 20th century, specifically between the mid-1980s and the 1990s, hydroelectricity experienced consistent growth. This expansion continued into the early 21st century, peaking in the mid-2000s with significant increments before the year 2010, where a notable decrease occurred. In recent years, hydropower has seen periods of recovery interspersed with declines, such as in 2014 and 2016. These historical shifts underscore the importance of stabilizing and enhancing low-carbon electricity, advocating for the diversification of sources beyond hydropower to include nuclear and solar energy as part of a strategic, sustainable growth effort.
