How does the electricity sector work in Uruguay?

The electricity sector of Uruguay has traditionally been based on domestic hydropower along with thermal power plants, and reliant on imports from Argentina and Brazil at times of peak demand.

How much of Uruguay's energy mix is based on fossil fuels?

In 2007, fossil fuels still accounted for over 30% of Uruguay’s energy mix, according to the World Resources Institute. The question then was: how could this number plummet to a mere 2% within seventeen years? The answer lay in a strategic pivot towards renewable energy sources, particularly wind power.

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.

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.

How much electricity does Uruguay have?

Installed electricity capacity in Uruguay was around 2,500 MW (megawatts) in 2009 and around 2,900 MW in 2013. Of the installed capacity, about 63% is hydro, accounting for 1,538 MW which includes half of the capacity of the Argentina-Uruguay bi-national Salto Grande.

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.