While the question asks about "What country," it's important to note that multiple nations have achieved the remarkable feat of generating 100% of their electricity from renewable sources. These countries leverage their unique geographical advantages and committed policies to harness clean energy.
The countries that consistently generate 100% of their electricity from renewable sources include:
- Albania
- Bhutan
- Nepal
- Paraguay
- Iceland
- Ethiopia
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
How These Nations Achieve 100% Renewable Electricity
These countries primarily rely on abundant natural resources to meet their electricity demands sustainably. Their success stories often highlight a strong dependence on specific renewable energy types:
- Hydropower: For many of these nations, particularly those with significant river systems and mountainous terrain like Albania, Bhutan, Nepal, Paraguay, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, hydropower is the backbone of their renewable electricity supply. Large dams and run-of-river projects provide consistent and substantial power.
- Geothermal and Hydro: Iceland stands out with its exceptional utilization of geothermal energy due to its volcanic activity, complemented by extensive hydropower resources. This combination provides a stable and clean energy grid.
- Diverse Mixes: While hydropower is dominant for many, countries like Ethiopia are also actively developing other sources, including wind and geothermal, to diversify their renewable energy portfolio.
The Path to Full Renewable Integration
Achieving 100% renewable electricity generation involves more than just having natural resources; it requires strategic planning, infrastructure development, and supportive policy frameworks. Key factors contributing to their success often include:
- Abundant Natural Resources: Access to significant hydropower potential, geothermal heat, or other renewable sources.
- Relatively Smaller Grid Sizes: For some, a smaller national electricity demand can make it easier to meet 100% with renewables.
- Strategic Investments: Continuous investment in renewable energy infrastructure, transmission lines, and grid management systems.
- Government Commitment: Strong political will and long-term policies prioritizing renewable energy development.
These countries serve as compelling examples of how a complete transition to clean electricity is not only possible but also sustainable and beneficial for energy independence and environmental protection.
Countries Achieving 100% Renewable Electricity Generation
To further illustrate, here is a breakdown of these pioneering nations and their primary renewable energy drivers:
| Country | Primary Renewable Sources | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Albania | Hydropower | Heavily relies on a network of hydroelectric dams. |
| Bhutan | Hydropower | Exports surplus hydropower, benefiting from Himalayan rivers. |
| Nepal | Hydropower | Utilizes its vast river systems for electricity generation. |
| Paraguay | Hydropower | Home to major hydroelectric power plants, notably Itaipu. |
| Iceland | Geothermal, Hydropower | Capitalizes on volcanic activity and glacial rivers. |
| Ethiopia | Hydropower, Wind, Geothermal | Developing diverse renewable sources, with significant hydropower potential. |
| Democratic Republic of the Congo | Hydropower | Possesses immense hydropower potential from the Congo River. |
