How does Armenia support the solar energy industry?

The Armenian government has a goal to support the solar energy industry through different programs which include offering citizens subsidized loans, to rebuild their apartments and private houses. Armenia ensures a free and competitive market environment to encourage innovative ideas and drive the growth of the industry.

How big is Armenia's solar power?

In 2017, Tamara Babayan, a sustainable energy expert, estimated the potential of Armenia’s distributed solar power at 1,280 MW and almost 1,800 GWh in annual generation.

How much electricity does Armenia produce a year?

Last year Armenia produced 8,907.9 GWh of electricity, up 16% from 2021. The vast majority came from thermal power plants in Yerevan and Hrazdan (43.5%) and the Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant (32%). Hydropower accounted for 21.8%, while solar stood at 2.7% and wind power at just 0.02%.

Is geothermal energy viable in Armenia?

The geothermal energy potential of Armenia is significant, but is not considered economically viable, at least for now. The World Bank has estimated the total potential at around 150 MW. The Karkar site in Syunik, for instance, has an estimated capacity of 28 MW with a construction cost of nearly $100 million, far pricier than solar.

What is Armenia's long-term energy strategy?

In its long-term strategy (up to 2040) for the energy sector, adopted in January 2021, the Armenian government identified the maximum utilization of renewable energy potential as a priority.

Where does Armenia's electricity come from?

Despite this progress, the majority of Armenia’s electricity still comes from non-renewable sources. Last year Armenia produced 8,907.9 GWh of electricity, up 16% from 2021. The vast majority came from thermal power plants in Yerevan and Hrazdan (43.5%) and the Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant (32%).