In 2025, Australia's electricity consumption shows a clear division between fossil-based and low-carbon sources. More than half of the electricity, about 59%, is derived from fossil fuels like coal, gas, and oil. Coal remains the dominant fossil source, providing over 40% of the electricity, while gas accounts for roughly 15%, and oil contributes a minor share at close to 2%. In contrast, low-carbon sources make up 41% of the energy mix, with the major contributors being solar and wind. Solar power alone generates about 20% of the electricity, while wind provides 15%. Hydropower adds another 4.5% to the low-carbon tally, indicating a significant commitment to adopting clean energy technologies.
Data sources used on this page include IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Australia?
Electricity consumption per capita in Australia has declined from its historic record, which is a cause for both concern due to reduced overall consumption and optimism with the rise in clean energy production. The current per capita consumption stands at 10,140 kWh, a reduction from the 2002 record of 11,613 kWh. This drop of 1,473 kWh might indicate shifts in industrial activity or energy efficiency improvements but sounds alarm bells considering the need for increased electricity to power digital and technological advancements. The silver lining lies in the growth of low-carbon electricity generation, which has risen to 4,166 kWh per person, marking an increase from the 2024 figure. With an increase of 281 kWh per person, there is tangible progress towards a cleaner electricity future.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Australia must expand its existing solar and wind infrastructure while also considering the potential benefits of nuclear energy. Building on its impressive solar and wind generation, Australia can look to emulate regions like Denmark, where wind accounts for 60% of electricity, or Nevada in the U.S., which generates 34% from solar. By incorporating nuclear energy into the mix, following examples set by countries like France and regions like Illinois and Ukraine, Australia could substantially boost its low-carbon output. These regions demonstrate the immense potential of nuclear and have paved the way for a balanced and sustainable energy strategy that Australia can learn from to secure its energy future.
History
Australia's journey through low-carbon electricity has seen notable advancements primarily in solar and wind technologies. Starting in the late 2010s, substantial additions to wind capacity were noted, with increases reaching up to 7.3 TWh in 2025. Similarly, Australia's solar generation has experienced a remarkable uptrend since 2019, with consistent annual increases peaking at 7.8 TWh in 2024. Meanwhile, hydropower has shown fluctuations, experiencing both increases and declines throughout the years. Despite some setbacks in hydropower, the consistent growth in solar and wind energy underscores Australia's capability and dedication to clean energy innovation. Australia is well-positioned to further develop its low-carbon energy infrastructure by continuing these trends and potentially incorporating nuclear energy, enhancing sustainability, and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
