Primary Energy Sources by Country 2024

Energy is the lifeblood of modern economies, fueling industries, powering homes, and driving development across the globe. The sources of energy vary significantly by country, influenced by factors such as geography, natural resource availability, infrastructure, and economic priorities. Understanding the primary energy sources by country offers insights into global energy trends and sheds light on how nations meet their energy demands while striving for sustainability.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the primary energy sources for every country worldwide. By exploring these sources, we can better understand the global energy landscape and how it shapes economic and environmental policies. From renewable energy champions to fossil fuel-dependent nations, the diversity of energy use tells a compelling story about progress, challenges, and opportunities.

Full Table of Primary Energy Sources by Country

Below is a table listing the primary energy sources for each country. These sources reflect the main contributors to the energy mix, whether renewable or non-renewable.

Global Energy Trends by Country

The table reveals interesting trends in global energy use. For example, countries like Iceland and Costa Rica rely heavily on renewable energy sources like geothermal and hydroelectric power, demonstrating the potential for sustainable energy strategies. On the other hand, fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas dominate the energy mix in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Russia, and the United States, reflecting their resource abundance and existing infrastructure.

In many nations, renewable energy is rapidly gaining ground. For instance, Brazil combines hydropower with biomass and wind energy, showcasing a balanced approach to renewable energy adoption. Similarly, countries in Europe like Germany and Denmark are leaders in wind and solar energy, actively working toward reducing carbon footprints. These examples highlight the growing global shift toward cleaner energy alternatives.

The Role of Renewable Energy in the Future

As global concerns about climate change and energy security rise, renewable energy sources are becoming increasingly significant. Nations are investing in solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy to diversify their energy portfolios and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. For example:

• Hydropower: A cornerstone of renewable energy, hydropower is a primary source for many countries, including Canada, Norway, and Bhutan. Its reliability and scalability make it a preferred choice for regions with abundant water resources.

• Solar and Wind Energy: Countries like Australia and Portugal are making strides in integrating solar and wind energy into their energy grids. These technologies are essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

• Geothermal Energy: Geothermal power is a unique, consistent energy source used extensively in Iceland and El Salvador, demonstrating its viability in geologically active regions.

While challenges such as infrastructure costs and energy storage persist, the momentum toward renewables signals a promising future for sustainable energy.

Energy Diversity and Policy Implications

Energy diversity is crucial for ensuring resilience and energy security. Countries rich in multiple resources, such as the United States, Russia, and China, have the advantage of flexibility in energy production. However, nations that depend on a single energy source, such as oil-reliant Kuwait or hydro-dependent Paraguay, face risks associated with market fluctuations and climate variability.

Global efforts to reduce carbon emissions, such as the Paris Agreement, have pushed countries to rethink their energy policies. Subsidies for renewable energy projects, carbon taxes, and international collaborations are shaping the future of energy. Balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability remains a challenge, but it also presents opportunities for innovation and cooperation.

Learn More

• Primary energy consumption by source – Our World In Data
• Energy Mix – Our World in Data