What is the main source of energy in Ecuador?

Petroleum and other liquids continue to be Ecuador's primary source of energy; crude oil accounted for 63.4% of total energy consumption in 2021. The country has significant oil reserves and is one of South America's top oil producers.

How much energy does Ecuador use?

In 2021, the country consumed 21 thousand short tons,15 which it imported primarily from the United States, followed by Peru. Ecuador relied heavily on fossil fuel (which include oil, natural gas, and coal) production for power generation a decade ago, with fossil fuel-powered plants accounting for about 43% of total energy production in 2011.

Does Ecuador have a natural gas market?

Ecuador's natural gas market is less developed than its oil sector; it has a 0.9% share of total energy production and 1.7% share of energy consumption (Figure 1). Natural gas in Ecuador is mostly used by the industry sector1.

How has Ecuador's energy consumption changed over the years?

Ecuador’s energy production increased by a compounded growth rate of 0.5% per year from 2011 to 2021, and renewables accounted for most of the increase. The country's energy consumption also increased by a compounded growth rate of 0.5% per year over the same period, down from 4.9% per year the decade prior.

Why is the Ecuadorian electricity sector considered strategic?

The Ecuadorian electricity sector is considered strategic due to its direct influence with the development productive of the country. In Ecuador for the year 2020, the generation capacity registered in the national territory was 8712.29 MW of NP (nominal power) and 8095.25 MW of PE (Effective power). The generation sources are presented in Table 1.

Does Ecuador have an electricity market?

In this research, an analysis of the electricity market in Ecuador is carried out, a portfolio of projects by source is presented, which are structured in maps with a view to an energy transition according to the official data provided.