In Australia in 2024, electricity consumption remains heavily reliant on fossil fuels, making up almost two-thirds of the total electricity generation, with coal contributing the largest share at approximately 46%. In contrast, low-carbon energy sources make up a little more than a third of the electricity consumption, with solar leading among these sources at around 18%. Wind energy accounts for close to 12%, while hydropower contributes just under 5%. Biofuels, although classified as low-carbon, provide only a small portion of electricity. Meanwhile, oil remains a minor part of the country's energy mix at about 2%. This current energy landscape highlights both the substantial role of fossil fuels and the growing yet still limited contribution of cleaner energy sources in Australia's electricity generation.
Is Electricity Growing in Australia?
The trend in Australia's electricity consumption shows a decline from historical peaks, raising concerns about the pace of progress in energy consumption growth. At 10,489 kWh per person, 2024's total electricity consumption reflects a decrease from the 2007 record of 11,605 kWh per person, marking a reduction of 1,116 kWh per person. This downturn points to a need for revitalizing growth to align with future energy demands through sustainable means. However, on a positive note, low-carbon electricity generation is experiencing growth, setting a new record of 3,722 kWh per person in 2024, surpassing the previous year's record by 121 kWh. This upward trajectory in clean energy generation is encouraging and indicates a promising path toward greater sustainability.
Suggestions
To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Australia should continue to expand its leading clean energy technologies, notably solar and wind. Building on this foundation, the country can look toward successful regions with robust low-carbon contributions, such as Denmark and Iowa, each generating over 50% of their electricity from wind. Similarly, solar adoption could benefit from examples like Lebanon, where solar energy constitutes 31% of the energy mix. Additionally, embracing nuclear energy could further diversify and stabilize Australia's clean energy efforts, offering a reliable and scalable solution, as exemplified by countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear makes up a significant portion of the energy mix. By taking inspiration from these global models, Australia has the opportunity to bolster its clean energy portfolio significantly.
History
Australia's journey in low-carbon electricity generation has experienced various shifts over the decades. In 1980, there was a notable decrease in hydropower output, while more recent history, particularly from 2018 onwards, saw a significant rise in solar and wind energy adoption. Post-2018, solar energy consistently exhibited substantial annual growth, with the most significant gains between 2019 and 2023. Wind energy also contributed positively during this period, albeit at a slightly slower pace than solar. These advancements signify a deliberate shift toward a more diversified low-carbon energy landscape. Despite fluctuations, particularly in hydropower, the growth in solar and wind has been a positive development, reflecting the country's potential to overcome adversities by ramping up clean energy efforts.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.