Why does Armenia need a single energy supplier?

Armenia relies on imports of natural gas and oil for most of its energy needs, which exposes it to supply risks and dependence on a single supplier. As the government considers energy security and the development of indigenous sources to be of prime importance for the energy sector, renewables and efficiency measures are key areas.

Does Armenia have solar energy?

Armenia has significant solar energy potential: average annual solar energy flow per square metre of horizontal surface is 1 720 kWh (the European average is 1 000 kWh), and one-quarter of the country’s territory is endowed with solar energy resources of 1 850 kWh/m 2 per year. Solar thermal energy is therefore developing rapidly in Armenia.

How important is R&D in energy technology and innovation in Armenia?

Research and development (R&D) in energy technology and innovation in Armenia is not significant, though it is becoming more important. The government’s plan to develop new renewable energy technologies will increase the need for technology and innovation funding, and for skilled human resources.

What percentage of Armenia's Energy is renewable?

Renewable energy resources, including hydro, represented 7.1% of Armenia’s energy mix in 2020. Almost one-third of the country’s electricity generation (30% in 2021) came from renewable sources. Forming the foundation of Armenia’s renewable energy system as of 6 January 2022 were 189 small, private HPPs (under 30 MW), mostly constructed since 2007.

What is the energy mix in Armenia in 2021?

Natural gas dominates the energy mix (59.6% of total energy supply in 2020), but the electricity mix is more diversified. In 2021, Armenia produced 7.7 TWh of electricity, of which natural gas covered 44% (3.4 TWh), hydro and other renewables 30% (2.3 TWh) and nuclear 26% (2.0 TWh).

Does Armenia trade electricity with Georgia?

Armenia also trades electricity with Georgia, though volumes are low since the countries’ networks are not synchronised. Energy interconnections with Azerbaijan and Türkiye are currently inactive for political reasons. Prompted by a severe electricity supply crisis in the mid-1990s, Armenia has revamped its energy sector over the past 20 years.