Should Uruguay use nuclear or solar power?

Both nuclear and solar power offer reliable, scalable options to complement current energy sources, reduce dependency on external factors like rainfall or fuel supply, and strengthen Uruguay’s green energy infrastructure. Uruguay's journey with low-carbon electricity has seen significant developments over the decades, particularly in hydropower.

What is Uruguay's energy strategy?

In 2005, Uruguay initiated a dramatic shift in its energy strategy, moving from petroleum-based electricity generation to renewable sources. In 2024, Uruguay generated 99 percent of its electricity from renewable sources using hydropower (42 percent), wind (28 percent), and biomass (26 percent).

How much solar energy does Uruguay get?

Uruguay receives an average 1,700 KW per square meter of sunlight a year, on par with Mediterranean countries although solar represents only a fraction of the country’s total electricity production. Uruguay’s Investment Promotion Law offers incentives for investing in solar manufacturing, systems implementation, and solar energy utilization.

Why does Uruguay have a surplus of electricity?

Uruguay generally has a surplus of electricity due to excess wind-power installed capacity. The country seeks to identify additional domestic uses for excess electricity and potentially increase exports to Argentina and Brazil.

Why does Uruguay have a high percentage of biomass energy?

Uruguay’s high percentage of biomass energy generation is a result of the cellulose industry’s expansion, where energy is generated from wood waste products. Biomass energy producing companies not only use electricity for their own consumption but also sell electricity to the state-owned company UTE.

How much energy does Uruguay produce in 2024?

According to preliminary 2024 data from Uruguay’s Ministry of Industry, Energy and Mining (MIEM), national energy production reached 17,202 GWh, marking a rebound from the downward trend observed in 2023. Of the total production, 15,175.8 GWh was used to meet domestic demand, while 2,026.2 GWh was exported.