In 2025, Spain's electricity consumption is predominantly low-carbon, with more than three-quarters of electricity generated from clean sources. Wind power accounts for about a fifth of the electricity, closely followed by nuclear, which also supplies around a fifth, and solar energy, which contributes just over a fifth as well. Hydropower provides approximately 15%, while biofuels make up a small portion of the mix. On the other hand, fossil fuel sources contribute just over a fifth of the total electricity, with gas being the significant contributor. This electricity landscape highlights Spain's commitment to reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and increasing sustainable electricity production.
Data sources used on this page include ENTSOE, Eurostat, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Spain?
Despite this progress in clean energy generation, overall electricity consumption in Spain has seen a decline over the years. As of 2025, the per capita electricity consumption stands at 5379 kWh, a noticeable decrease from the 2008 record of 6786 kWh. This drop of more than 1400 kWh per person marks a significant reduction in electricity usage. Additionally, low-carbon electricity generation also experienced a slight decrease from its previous peak in 2024, with a minor dip of 25 kWh per person. This downturn in electricity consumption and clean energy production is concerning, given the increasing electrification demands of modern infrastructure and technologies.
Suggestions
To bolster its low-carbon electricity production, Spain can focus on expanding its existing nuclear, wind, and solar capacities, as these have already proven effective. Taking inspiration from countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy dominates with contributions of up to 70%, Spain can strive to increase its nuclear capacity to stabilize and augment its clean electricity supply. Furthermore, harnessing lessons from regions like Iowa and Denmark, where wind power provides significant portions of electricity, Spain can continue to develop its wind infrastructure. Solar energy should remain a priority, drawing lessons from Nevada, where solar accounts for a third of the electricity supply. By focusing on these areas, Spain can ensure a more robust and resilient low-carbon electricity supply for the future.
History
Historically, Spain has seen fluctuations in its low-carbon electricity sources, especially from hydropower. The late 20th century and early 21st century experienced both increases and decreases in hydroelectric generation, with notable gains like the 18.7 TWh increase in 1977 and declines such as the 16.8 TWh dip in 1980. The year 1984 marked a significant boost in nuclear electricity generation with a 12.4 TWh increase. While fluctuations in hydropower have continued into the 2010s, with both gains and losses, the solar energy sector marked a strong increase in 2023 with a 9.9 TWh rise. This historical perspective illustrates a dynamic low-carbon resilience while underlining the importance of expanding consistent sources like nuclear and solar energy for a stable electricity future.
