How does the electricity sector work in Uruguay?

The electricity sector of Uruguay has traditionally been based on domestic hydropower along with thermal power plants, and reliant on imports from Argentina and Brazil at times of peak demand.

Is grid-connected wind power a real resource in Uruguay?

According to the National Directorate for Energy and Nuclear Technology (DNETN), grid-connected wind power generation is one of the domestic resources with both medium and long term potential in Uruguay. The government has taken action to promote RE development.

How will wind power affect Uruguay's future energy supply?

The current 6% private contribution to the generation park is expected to increase as investments in new wind power plants materialize. Renewables could play a role in future energy supply, in particular wind power, allowing Uruguay to reduce its dependence on imports.

How much electricity does Uruguay have?

Installed electricity capacity in Uruguay was around 2,500 MW ( megawatts) in 2009 and around 2,900 MW in 2013. Of the installed capacity, about 63% is hydro, accounting for 1,538 MW which includes half of the capacity of the Argentina-Uruguay bi-national Salto Grande.

What is the potential for large hydroelectric projects in Uruguay?

All the potential for large hydroelectric projects in Uruguay has already been developed. Existing plants are Terra (152 MW), Baygorria (108 MW), Constitucion (333 MW) and the bi-national Salto Grande, with a total capacity of 1,890 MW. Uruguay has a favorable climate for generating electricity through wind power.