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 can Armenia improve energy security?

Armenia is heavily promoting renewables not only to increase energy security, but also to meet greenhouse-gas reduction commitments. Further emphasis on energy efficiency could also help improve energy security, according to the IEA.

How has Armenia restructured its energy sector?

Prompted by a severe electricity supply crisis in the mid-1990s, Armenia has revamped its energy sector over the past 20 years. Parts of the sector have been privatised, some companies have been restructured, most households now have access to gas, and cost-reflective tariffs have been introduced.

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.

How much energy does Armenia need?

It has been an observer to the Energy Community since 2011 and a member of the Eastern Partnership since 2009. Although Armenia’s energy demand averages more than 3 Mtoe (3.59 Mtoe in 2020) and the country does not produce any fossil fuels, it manages to cover 27% of energy demand with domestic energy production.