What was the energy grid like in Uruguay?

Uruguay's energy grid was powered almost exclusively by domestically created, renewable energy, and, adjusted for inflation, consumer prices had gone down. Today, there are more than 700 wind turbines installed across Uruguay's countryside. "It was absolutely a complete transformation," says Méndez Galain.

What is Uruguay's energy future?

His vision for Uruguay's energy future was to cover that empty land with hundreds of wind turbines. Today, wind power accounts for around 40% of Uruguay's energy production. And, according to a 2008 law, all the wind in the country officially belongs to the Uruguayan people.

Why does Uruguay generate a surplus of electricity?

Typically, Uruguay generates a surplus of electricity due to an excess of wind-power capacity. The country seeks to identify additional domestic uses for excess electricity and potentially increase exports to Argentina and Brazil.

How much electricity does Uruguay generate?

According to 2022 data from MIEM, Uruguay generated 14,759 GWh of electricity, 13,343 GWh for internal demand and exported 1,416 GWh to Brazil and Argentina Typically, Uruguay generates a surplus of electricity due to an excess of wind-power capacity.

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.

Does Uruguay export energy to Brazil and Argentina?

Once a net importer of energy, Uruguay now exports its surplus energy to neighbouring Brazil and Argentina. Help us continue providing unbiased, in-depth coverage on climate change. Your donation ensures our newsroom remains independent and free from corporate influence.