El Salvador’s renewable energy sector has shown impressive growth, with a total of 4,626 gigawatt hours (GWh) generated from renewable sources between January 1 and December 18, 2024. Hydroelectric plants remain the country’s leading source of renewable energy, accounting for 44.8% of the total renewable generation, followed by geothermal energy.

According to the General Directorate of Energy, Hydrocarbons, and Mines (DGEHM), hydroelectric power contributed 2,073,590.11 GWh, making up 28.3% of the country’s energy matrix. Geothermal energy followed with 1,401,150 GWh, representing 19.1% of the matrix and 33.2% of renewable generation. Solar energy, a growing contributor, generated 516,812.24 GWh, accounting for 7% of the country’s total energy matrix.

In addition, biomass production reached 496,164.90 GWh, providing 6.7% of the energy matrix, while wind power contributed 138,658.2 GWh, or 1.9% of the total.

The overall increase in renewable energy generation is seen as a positive development for the country, displacing more costly fossil fuel-generated electricity and helping to lower energy prices. Juan Carlos Guevara, Director of Energy at DGEHM, emphasized that the use of renewable energy also plays a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to the fight against climate change.

Looking ahead, the government of President Nayib Bukele continues to focus on expanding the country’s renewable energy capacity. Key projects in the pipeline include the 15 de Septiembre Solar Project (19.2 MW), Chinameca Geothermal Plant (20 MW), San Vicente Geothermal Plant (10 MW), Río Acelhuate Biogas Generation Project (5.43 MW), and a wind project in Metapán, with a potential of 99 MW. These initiatives will help ensure a more sustainable and diversified energy future for El Salvador.