Renewables Readiness Assessment: El Salvador

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El Salvador has prioritised renewable energy projects to reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuels and improve energy security. The National Energy Policy 2010-2024 has become a key tool for the country to advance the use of indigenous renewables, including hydropower, biomass, solar photovoltaic (PV) and geothermal power.

See summary in English and Spanish (español)

This Renewables Readiness Assessment (RRA) highlights key actions for the short and medium-term that could create more conductive conditions for renewable energy development. It aims to help unlock El Salvador's renewable energy potential, first of all in the power sector but also for transport, agri-food and industrial end uses.

The new National Energy Policy 2020-2050 aims to continue developing the country’s renewable energy potential, which can stimulate local commerce and industry, help reduce electricity tariffs and improve people’s welfare.

The Executive Hydroelectric Commission of the Lempa River (CEL – Comisión Ejecutiva Hidroeléctrica del Río Lempa), in co-ordination with the National Energy Council (CNE – Consejo Nacional de Energía), undertook the study in collaboration with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

Key recommendations:

• Enhance long-term planning and policy for the renewable energy sector
• Create enabling conditions for geothermal energy development
• Establish clear institutional frameworks and co-ordination
• Assess the implementation of distributed power generation
• Foster project development and financing for renewables