BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 11. Georgia’s electricity production fell by 1.1% in 2024 compared to the previous year, totaling 14.23 billion kilowatt-hours.
Data obtained by Trend from the country's National Statistics shows mixed trends across the country’s energy sector.
Crude oil production decreased by 8%, totaling 35,800 tons, while coal extraction saw a notable increase of 20.1%, reaching 177,800 tons. Natural gas production also experienced a slight decline of 3%, amounting to 15.9 million cubic meters.
Firewood, classified as a biofuel, saw a decrease of 7.2%, with production falling to 1.03 million cubic meters.
In terms of overall energy production, electricity remained the dominant source, comprising 77.4% of total domestic energy output, measured in thousand tons of oil equivalent. Biofuels and waste, primarily in the form of firewood, accounted for 12.3%, with other energy sources contributing the remaining share.
Hydropower plants (HPPs) contribute over 70% of Georgia’s total electricity generation. However, to compensate for fluctuations in output, particularly during low-water periods, the country relies heavily on thermal power plants (TPPs) and imports. In 2024, despite a decline in overall production, Georgia’s installed electricity capacity reached approximately 4,700 megawatts (MW), although actual output varied significantly.
Electricity remains the dominant source in the country’s energy mix, accounting for 77.4% of total domestic production in 2024. This stands in stark contrast to the minimal contributions from natural gas (3%) and oil (0.2%), highlighting Georgia’s heavy reliance on imported gas, mainly from Azerbaijan, to meet heating and industrial demands.
Additionally, the 20.1% increase in coal extraction indicates a strategic shift towards greater use of domestic thermal generation, aimed at offsetting the reduced output from hydropower sources.