Can Latvia use clean electricity to decarbonise other economic sectors?

Latvia’s hydro-dominated electricity system provides a favourable starting point to use clean electricity to decarbonise other economic sectors. Moreover, given Latvia’s historic dependence on energy imports from Russia, its transition to clean energy sources offers an important opportunity to bolster energy security and lower energy prices.

Which energy sources are used in Latvia?

Latvia has underground gas storage facilities at the Inčukalns UGS, with a capacity of 4.47 billion m 3. Natural gas companies include Latvijas Gāze. Renewable energy includes wind, solar, biomass and geothermal energy sources. Almost half of the electricity used in the country is provided by renewable energy sources.

Does Latvia have a green energy policy?

Latvia has started to shift to an energy policy that leans heavily towards green energy after the restoration of its independence. However, it is still heavily dependent on imported energy that accounts for 90 percent of the country’s needs.

How much electricity does Latvia use per capita?

In 2018, electricity consumption per capita was 3731 kWh. Latvia has adopted the EU target to produce 50% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030. The 2021-30 plan set a target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 65% compared to 1990. There is a target of being carbon neutral by 2050.

What is the main renewable resource in Latvia?

The main renewable resource is hydroelectric power. Latvia has laws that regulate the building of power plants and plans to sell electricity at higher prices. This is a stimulus for investment, especially taking into consideration the fact that Latvia cannot offer big subsidies in order to attract investment.

What is a hydro power station in Latvia?

Hydro is an important power source in Latvia, Ķegums Hydroelectric Power Station is the oldest hydro power station in the country, built in 1940. It was agreed in 2018 that Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania would connect to the European Union's electricity system and desynchronize from the Russian BRELL power system.