Over the past year, spanning from September 2025 to August 2026, Spain has achieved a notable division in its electricity generation sources, with a strong shift towards low-carbon or clean electricity. More than three-quarters of Spain's electricity, or about 76%, comes from low-carbon sources, consisting predominantly of solar, wind, and nuclear energy. Solar energy contributes about 23%, and wind is responsible for approximately 20%. Nuclear power continues to be a significant player, providing nearly 18% of the electricity. Hydropower adds roughly 13% to the low-carbon total. While fossil fuels still make up about 24% of electricity generation, with gas being the most significant at 20%, it is clear that Spain is leaning heavily towards cleaner energy options, with oil and biofuels contributing very marginal amounts to the total electricity mix.

Is Electricity Growing in Spain?

Despite recent achievements, the overall electricity consumption in Spain is not growing to previous levels. The latest figures indicate an electricity consumption of 6022 kWh per person in 2026, which is a decrease of 764 kWh per person when compared to the historic high of 6786 kWh per person in 2008. This reduction signals a decline in overall electricity consumption, perhaps influenced by energy efficiency measures, economic factors, or other influences that need addressing to meet growing demands. However, there is a silver lining as Spain has increased its low-carbon electricity generation to 4592 kWh per person, marking a slight improvement over the last year, thus setting a new record. This continuous advancement in green energy is crucial, but to truly progress, the country must focus on reversing the overall consumption decline while maintaining and expanding its clean electricity generation.

Suggestions

To bolster low-carbon electricity generation further, Spain can focus on expanding its nuclear and solar facilities, as these sources have been integral to its current energy mix. Countries like France and Slovakia provide excellent examples, with nuclear energy contributing to about 67% and 66% of their electricity, respectively. Similarly, Denmark and Iowa's successful deployment of wind energy, at around 57%, also serves as a commendable model for wind energy expansion. Spain should take a cue from these regions, maximizing its abundant sunlight for solar power while continuing to innovate and scale up nuclear energy production. By following these successful examples, Spain can decrease dependence on fossil fuels, reduce climate impacts, and pave the way towards a more sustainable energy future.

History

In reviewing Spain's history of low-carbon electricity, significant volatility in hydropower is evident from past decades, with substantial fluctuations throughout the years. The early 1980s and late 2000s witnessed sharp declines in hydropower output. Despite these challenges, the early 2010s marked a period of increased hydroelectric output, likely helped by improved water management. However, in following years, hydro suffered setbacks and showed instability. Recently, Spain has been making strides in solar energy, with a notable increase in generation by 12.7 TWh in 2023. This reflects a growing commitment to solar, marking a new chapter in Spain's energy strategy, which, coupled with steady nuclear contributions, can assure a cleaner and more reliable electricity future. Further investments and policy support in solar and nuclear energy will be essential in sustaining and amplifying this momentum.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Sep 2025 – Aug 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.