How much energy does Uruguay need?

The Solution to Intermittency Renewable sources—hydroelectric power, wind, biomass, and solar energy—now cover up to 98% of Uruguay’s energy needs in a normal year and still over 90% in a very dry one, according to Méndez.

What is the future of energy in Uruguay?

Credit: FRV Future Renewable Vision. After hydropower and wind, biomass is another important energy source, accounting for 15-20% of the electricity Uruguay produces. Wood pulp plants, for example, are now burning organic waste to produce energy for the grid, turning what was an environmental liability into an energy asset.

Should Uruguay switch to green electricity?

Uruguay, one of South America’s smallest countries, is attracting outsized attention over its transition to green electricity. It didn’t happen simply by building a bunch of wind and solar farms, the architect of the strategy said, but by rethinking the entire energy system. And, he said, other countries could do that too.

How did the energy industry change in Uruguay?

The true transformation began with a bold bet on wind energy. By 2008, Uruguay was experiencing economic growth that outpaced its existing energy supply. As demand surged, blackouts became more frequent, leading to increased electricity bills and the implementation of rationing measures.

Why is Uruguay turning to wind power?

The answer lay in a strategic pivot towards renewable energy sources, particularly wind power. The true transformation began with a bold bet on wind energy. By 2008, Uruguay was experiencing economic growth that outpaced its existing energy supply.

How much of Uruguay's energy comes from fossil fuels?

Back then, he said, about half of Uruguay’s energy mix came from imported fossil fuels, at a cost that at times exceeded 2% of GDP. The country was also experiencing some energy shortages.