Is Uruguay a repeatable framework of energy sovereignty for developing countries?

Ramón Mendéz Galain believes so. Uruguay’s former national director of energy in the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Mining, who was the impetus for the country’s shift away from dirty fuels, has been promoting the country’s success as a repeatable framework of energy sovereignty for developing countries.

What is the benefit of unused energy in Uruguay?

In Uruguay, unused energy sometimes cost the utility as much as $90 million a year, according to officials. But it also allowed them to stabilize the grid and, according to the energy think tank Ember, accomplish something no country besides Denmark and Luxembourg has: shoot beyond 40 percent for wind and solar.

Why does Uruguay have a power grid?

In the same way Uruguay’s abundance of wind and rivers proved fortuitous for energy sovereignty, so was the government’s oversight of the electric grid.

Does Uruguay have a good energy policy?

Uruguay is undergoing a strong and successful transformation in terms of energy policy, thanks to an adequate institutional and regulatory framework that advances together with the implementation of this long-term policy.

Is Uruguay a net importer of energy?

Once a net importer of energy, Uruguay now exports its surplus energy to neighbouring Brazil and Argentina. In less than two decades, Uruguay broke free of its dependence on oil imports and carbon emitting power generation, transitioning to renewable energy that is owned by the state but with infrastructure paid for by private investment.

What percentage of Uruguay's electricity comes from renewable sources?

Between 2017 and 2020, 97% of Uruguay's electricity generation originated from renewable sources, placing it as a leading country worldwide along with Denmark, Ireland and Portugal. It also became a net exporter for the region.