Electric power has become one of the most essential resources in our modern world. Whether it’s charging our devices, powering our homes, or keeping businesses running, electricity plays a vital role in our daily lives. As such, it’s no surprise that countries around the world have ramped up their electric power production to keep pace with growing demands.
But which countries are at the forefront of this electric revolution? Let’s take a journey around the globe and uncover the top 20 nations leading the way in electric power production.
Electricity plays a crucial role in our everyday lives. It powers our lights, fuels our computers and smartphones, keeps our homes warm or cool, and drives our appliances, among many other things.
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Moreover, electricity is the lifeblood of modern economies. It enables nations to produce a wide range of products and services that would be inconceivable without it. It also fuels consumer demand, allowing people to engage in more shopping and thus stimulating economic growth.
Looking ahead, electricity holds the promise of helping economies transition away from fossil fuels. Electric vehicles (EVs) are already gaining momentum, offering a cleaner and more sustainable alternative to traditional cars. Additionally, there’s growing interest in the possibility of electric planes, which could further reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and lower carbon emissions.
In essence, electricity is not only indispensable for our daily lives but also for the sustainable development of our societies and economies in the future.
Global 2021 Electricity Generation
In 2021, global electricity generation saw a notable 6.2% increase, driven by the economic rebound following the pandemic. This growth resembled the 6.4% surge witnessed in 2010 in the aftermath of the financial crisis.
In terms of energy sources, renewables reached a remarkable milestone last year, with wind and solar energy accounting for more than 10% of the world’s power generation for the very first time, specifically reaching a 10.2% share in 2021. Meanwhile, coal contributed to 36% of global electricity generation, while natural gas made up 22.9%.
The reason behind this 10% achievement for solar and wind energy is the substantial increase in renewable energy capacity for both sources last year. In 2021, we saw a notable increase of 226 gigawatts (GW), following a similarly impressive increase of 236 GW in 2020. As a whole, renewable primary energy experienced a robust annual growth rate of 15% in 2021, surpassing the 9% growth rate observed in 2020.
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Considering the growing imperative to reduce carbon emissions, it’s highly likely that the expansion of renewable primary energy sources will continue into the foreseeable future.
Future
Looking ahead, it’s evident that the world’s electricity production is set to continue its upward trajectory. According to the IEA’s World Energy Outlook 2022, global electricity demand is projected to increase significantly. In the agency’s Stated Policies Scenario, we can expect a rise of 5,900 terawatt-hours by 2030, and in the Announced Pledges Scenario, this figure jumps to 7,000 terawatt-hours. To put that into perspective, it’s like adding the current electricity consumption of both the United States and the European Union.
In advanced economies, the surge in electric vehicle adoption is anticipated to be the major driver behind increased electricity demand. Meanwhile, in emerging markets, factors such as population growth and a growing need for cooling are expected to fuel the rise in demand.
Looking further into the future, the IEA’s 2050 projections paint an even more electrified picture. In the Stated Policies Scenario, global electricity demand is forecasted to soar by over 75% compared to today, while in the Announced Pledges Scenario, it’s an astonishing 120% increase. In the agency’s Net Zero Emissions by 2050 Scenario, electricity demand could surge by as much as 150%.
With higher demand for electricity, it’s only logical that electricity production will need to keep pace.
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Speaking of electricity production, the IEA envisions a dominant role for renewables in the coming decades. In fact, renewable energy sources are projected to constitute a substantial 75% to 80% of all new capacity additions up to 2050, according to both the Stated Policies Scenario and Announced Pledges Scenario. This underlines the growing significance of renewable energy in shaping our global energy landscape.
Our Approach
In compiling our list of the top 20 countries that are powerhouses in electricity production, we relied on data extracted from BP’s Statistical Review of World Energy for the year 2022.
1. China
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 8534.25
China takes the top spot on our list of the 20 leading electricity-producing nations, and it’s no small feat. In 2021, China generated a whopping 8,534.25 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity, accounting for a staggering 30% of the world’s total electricity production for that year.
China’s immense electricity demand isn’t surprising considering its population, which stands as the world’s largest, with 1.4 billion people. Furthermore, the nation boasts the second-largest nominal GDP, a formidable $17.73 trillion.
What’s truly noteworthy is China’s commitment to greener energy sources. In recent years, it has significantly expanded its use of renewable energy, particularly with its rapidly growing solar industry. The country’s ambitious plans for the future include further boosting its renewable energy production. According to their 5-year plan, China aims to have renewable energy account for 33% of its electricity generation by 2025, up from 28.8% in 2020. This demonstrates a strong commitment to a more sustainable energy future.
2. United States
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 4406.4
The United States secures the second position on our roster of the top 20 countries in electricity production. In 2021, the nation generated an impressive 4,406.4 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity.
When it comes to electricity production, it’s notable that the United States has experienced a relatively modest average annual increase of just 0.1% between 2011 and 2021. This slow growth can be attributed to the adoption of more energy-efficient lighting and appliances, which have contributed to a decrease in electricity demand.
Analyzing electricity generation by source, natural gas played a substantial role, accounting for 1,693.8 TWh, followed closely by nuclear energy at 819.1 TWh. Renewable energy sources contributed significantly as well, with a total of 624.5 TWh, highlighting the nation’s diversification in its energy mix.
3. India
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 1714.8
India, with its vast population of 1.393 billion people and its rapidly advancing economy, is a significant player in the realm of electricity production. In the year 2021, the country stood as the world’s third-largest producer of electricity, generating an impressive 1,714.8 terawatt-hours (TWh).
What’s even more remarkable is India’s trajectory of electricity production over time. Between 2011 and 2021, the nation experienced an average annual growth rate of 5.2% in its total electricity generation. This underscores the country’s continuous development and the increasing demand for electricity that accompanies it.
Looking ahead, it’s highly likely that India’s electricity generation will continue to rise in the coming decades, aligning with its ongoing development and progress.
4. Russia
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 1157.1
Russia secures the fourth spot on our compilation of the top 20 countries leading in electricity production. In the year 2021, the nation generated a substantial 1,157.1 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity.
Diving into the sources of this electricity generation, it’s noteworthy that natural gas played a significant role, contributing 496.8 TWh. This can be attributed to Russia’s immense natural gas reserves, which account for nearly a quarter of the world’s total.
Nuclear energy also played a substantial part in Russia’s energy mix, generating 222.4 TWh. Additionally, hydroelectric power contributed significantly, generating 214.5 TWh in the same year. These diverse energy sources contribute to Russia’s noteworthy position in electricity production.
5. Japan
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 1019.7
Japan, as the world’s third-largest economy with a GDP of $4.937 trillion in the year 2021, generated a significant amount of electricity to fuel its vibrant economic activities. In that year, Japan produced a total of 1,019.7 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity.
Breaking down the sources of this electricity generation, it’s notable that natural gas played a substantial role, contributing 326.1 TWh. Coal also made a significant contribution, accounting for 301.9 TWh of electricity produced. It’s worth mentioning that Japan’s renewable energy sector experienced growth, with renewables generating 130.3 TWh in 2021, up from 117.8 TWh in the previous year. This reflects a positive shift toward cleaner and more sustainable energy sources in the country’s energy mix.
6. Brazil
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 654.4
Brazil, boasting the largest economy in Latin America with a robust GDP of $1.609 trillion in 2021, is a notable player on the global stage. This economic strength translates into substantial electricity production, with Brazil generating an impressive 654.4 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity in the same year. This achievement secures Brazil’s position as the sixth-largest electricity producer on our list of the top 20 countries in electricity production.
What’s particularly noteworthy is Brazil’s consistent growth in electricity generation. Over the decade from 2011 to 2021, the country saw an average annual increase of 2.1% in the total TWh of electricity generated. This signifies not only Brazil’s economic vitality but also its commitment to meeting the growing energy needs of its population and industries.
7. Canada
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 641
Based on data from BP, Canada’s electricity production in 2021 reached 641 terawatt-hours (TWh), making up 2.3% of the global electricity output for that year. Despite its relatively stable performance over the past decade, where electricity generation has seen little change, Canada still claims the seventh spot on the global list of total electricity producers.
This consistency in electricity production can be attributed, in part, to the adoption of more energy-efficient appliances and lighting in Canada. These advancements have helped curtail electricity demand in the country, although Canada maintains a prominent position in the world’s electricity landscape.
8. South Korea
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 600.4
South Korea secures the eighth spot on our list of the top 20 electricity-producing countries, with a substantial electricity production of 600.4 terawatt-hours (TWh).
When we examine the sources behind this electricity production, it’s noteworthy that renewable energy played a role, accounting for 43.09 TWh. Natural gas also contributed significantly, generating 168.26 TWh.
Looking ahead, South Korea has ambitious goals for renewable energy. The country aims to have renewables constitute 33.6% of its electricity production by 2030, with a further target of 40.3% by 2034. These targets reflect a strong commitment to incorporating cleaner and more sustainable energy sources into its energy mix.
9. Germany
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 584.5
Germany, boasting the largest economy in Europe, secures the ninth position on our roster of the top 20 countries leading in electricity production. In the year 2021, Germany produced a notable 584.5 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity.
What’s particularly noteworthy about Germany is its progressive stance on renewable energy. The country has emerged as a leader in this regard, with renewable energy sources accounting for a remarkable 49% of German power consumption in the first half of 2022. This represents a significant increase of 6 percentage points compared to the same period the previous year, thanks in part to favorable weather conditions. During this period, Germany experienced higher wind speeds and greater sunshine intensity, resulting in increased electricity generation from wind and solar sources.
Germany’s commitment to renewable energy reflects not only its economic prowess but also its dedication to cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions.
10. France
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 547.2
France, recognized for its formidable economy with a GDP reaching $2.937 trillion in 2021, stands as a significant player in the realm of electricity production. In the same year, France generated an impressive 547.2 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity.
A striking facet of France’s electricity production is its heavy reliance on nuclear power, accounting for a substantial 361 TWh of electricity generation. This marked a noteworthy year-over-year increase of 7.5%. Notably, when it comes to nuclear electricity production per capita, France outpaces all other countries.
This underscores France’s economic strength and its unique position as a leader in harnessing nuclear energy for its electricity needs.
11. Iran
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 357.8
Iran, with its burgeoning economy, has witnessed a substantial surge in electricity consumption over the years. Between 1990 and 2020, electricity final consumption in Iran escalated by a remarkable 440.62%.
This growth in electricity demand aligns with the country’s abundant oil and gas resources. In 2021, the majority of Iran’s electricity generation, specifically 81%, was powered by natural gas, while oil contributed 14%. Hydropower played a smaller role, accounting for 4% of the electricity generation mix.
Iran’s reliance on its considerable oil and gas reserves for electricity production reflects its energy landscape, where these traditional energy sources continue to play a significant role.
12. Saudi Arabia
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 356.6
Saudi Arabia, renowned for its vast reserves of oil and gas, relied on these resources for its electricity generation in 2020. Specifically, crude oil played a significant role, contributing to 39% of the country’s electricity generation, while natural gas took the lead with 61%.
In a bid to increase the amount of oil available for export, Saudi Arabia has strategic plans to diversify its energy sources for electricity generation in the future.
In 2021, this energy powerhouse produced a substantial 356.6 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity, securing the twelfth position on our list of the top 20 countries in electricity production. This reflects the country’s enduring role in the global energy landscape.
13. Mexico
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 336
Mexico’s expanding economy has translated into a significant surge in final electricity consumption. From 1990 to 2020, the country witnessed a substantial 183.04% increase in electricity consumption.
This upward trend in electricity demand is projected to continue, especially with Mexico’s population expected to grow from 127 million today to an estimated 150 million by 2050. As a result, the nation’s appetite for electricity is anticipated to further intensify.
In response to this robust demand for electricity, Mexico made strides in electricity production, generating a total of 336 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2021. Impressively, 86.27 TWh of this electricity came from clean energy resources, reflecting Mexico’s commitment to harnessing cleaner and more sustainable energy sources to meet its evolving energy needs.
14. Turkey
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 333.3
Turkey secures the fourteenth position on our compilation of the top 20 countries in electricity production, with a notable achievement of 333.3 terawatt-hours (TWh) generated in 2021.
One of Turkey’s remarkable strengths lies in its embrace of renewable energy sources, thanks in part to supportive government policies. The nation stands as a global leader in hydroelectric capacity, ranking ninth worldwide with a capacity of 31 gigawatts (GW). Additionally, in wind energy capacity, Turkey holds the thirteenth spot, boasting an impressive 10 GW. Turkey’s commitment to renewable energy extends to geothermal sources, where it ranks fourth in the world with a capacity of 2 GW.
What’s more, Turkey has set ambitious sustainability goals, aiming to achieve net-zero emissions by the year 2053. These initiatives underscore Turkey’s dedication to cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions, further solidifying its position on the global stage.
15. UK
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 309.9
The United Kingdom boasts one of the globe’s largest economies, registering a substantial nominal GDP of $3.187 trillion in 2021. This economic might positions the UK as one of the world’s significant electricity producers, with the nation generating an impressive 309.9 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity in 2021.
What’s particularly noteworthy is the UK’s transition towards cleaner energy sources. In 2021, renewables played a pivotal role, contributing to approximately 40% of the nation’s electricity generation. This marks a remarkable shift from just 2% in 1991, underscoring the UK’s commitment to embracing cleaner and more sustainable methods of generating electricity.
16. Indonesia
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 309.4
Indonesia secures the sixteenth position on our list of the top 20 countries in electricity production, having generated 309.4 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity in the previous year.
This achievement aligns with Indonesia’s status as a developing economy, where electricity demand is anticipated to experience an average annual growth rate of 4.9% from 2021 to 2030. Consequently, the country’s electricity production is expected to keep pace with this rising demand.
Indonesia’s forward-looking energy goals include a significant emphasis on renewables. The nation aspires to increase the share of renewables in its energy mix from the current 13% to an ambitious 23% by 2025. This reflects Indonesia’s commitment to embracing cleaner and more sustainable energy sources as it continues to develop and meet its growing energy needs.
17. Taiwan
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 290.9
In the year 2021, Taiwan contributed significantly to the global electricity landscape, producing a total of 290.9 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity.
Breaking down the sources of this electricity generation, coal played a substantial role, accounting for approximately 45% of Taiwan’s total electricity generation in 2021. Natural gas also made a notable contribution, contributing to 36.4% of the electricity mix.
What’s particularly promising is Taiwan’s growing commitment to renewable energy sources. The country has strategic plans to ramp up its reliance on renewables, aiming to generate 20% of its power from clean energy by 2025. This marks a significant leap from the roughly 5% share recorded in 2020. Taiwan’s dedication to embracing cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions is a noteworthy development in its energy landscape.
18. Italy
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 287.2
Italy made a notable contribution to global electricity production in 2021, generating a total of 287.2 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity. An encouraging aspect of this electricity generation is the substantial role played by renewable energy sources, accounting for 36% of Italy’s total electricity demand.
In its pursuit of reduced carbon emissions, Italy has set ambitious goals. The country aims to have renewables constitute a significant 55% of its electricity generation by 2030. This commitment to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources aligns with Italy’s recent success in reducing carbon emissions. Notably, electricity final consumption in the country reached its peak in 2007, and this trend, coupled with the increase in renewables, is likely to continue driving down Italy’s carbon emissions in the coming years.
19. Spain
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 272.1
Spain stands out as a global leader in renewable energy adoption. In 2021, renewable technologies played a pivotal role in the country’s energy landscape, accounting for an impressive 46.7% of all electricity generated.
Among the various renewable sources, wind power emerged as a frontrunner, contributing to 23.3% of Spain’s total electricity production. This makes wind energy the leading source of energy in Spain’s diverse generation mix.
In terms of overall electricity production, Spain generated a noteworthy 272.1 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity in 2021. This accomplishment secured Spain’s position as the nineteenth-largest electricity producer on our list of the top 20 countries in electricity production. Spain’s dedication to renewable energy underscores its commitment to cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions.
20. Australia
Electricity Production in 2021 (TWh): 267.5
Australia secures the twentieth position on our list of the top 20 countries in electricity production, with an impressive 267.5 terawatt-hours (TWh) generated in 2021.
One remarkable aspect of Australia’s electricity generation is the growing role of renewable sources, contributing 77.72 TWh, which accounts for 29% of the country’s total electricity generation. This marks a significant increase of 5 percentage points from the previous year.
Delving into the specifics of renewable energy, solar power took the lead, contributing to 12% of Australia’s total electricity generation, closely followed by wind energy at 10%. Additionally, hydroelectric power played a notable role, accounting for 6% of the total electricity generation mix.
Australia’s commitment to expanding its renewable energy capacity underscores its dedication to cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions as it continues to evolve in the realm of electricity production.
