Over the past year, from September 2024 to August 2025, California's electricity consumption has shown a promising tilt towards low-carbon sources. Low-carbon energy, which encompasses sources like solar, nuclear, and wind, comprises over half of California's electricity mix. Specifically, solar energy is a major contributor, making up more than 40% of the total electricity when combining solar from utilities and behind-the-meter installations. Fossil fuels, primarily gas, account for a bit more than a quarter of the electricity consumed. Meanwhile, net imports add nearly a fifth to the state’s electricity consumption. Additionally, hydropower, nuclear, wind, geothermal, and biofuels are significant, albeit smaller, contributors to the low-carbon energy total.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in California?
Although California's electricity consumption remains below its historic peak, there is encouraging progress in clean energy generation. The latest per capita consumption stands at 7620 kWh, lower than the 2008 peak of 8256 kWh. However, when focusing on the low-carbon segment, the state has achieved new heights, with 4206 kWh per person, improving from 2024's previous record of 4029 kWh per person. This increase of 177 kWh in low-carbon electricity generation per capita signifies a positive shift towards greener energy sources, while overall consumption sheds light on efficiency and conservation efforts—but there remains room for growth to meet the rising demand from electrification trends.
Suggestions
California can bolster its low-carbon electricity production by further expanding solar infrastructure, given its existing substantial contribution. Lessons can be drawn from Iowa and Denmark, where wind powers substantial portions of their electricity mix — 60% and 59%, respectively. Additionally, California could learn from nuclear energy leaders like France and Slovakia, which derive 70% and 66% of their electricity from nuclear power. Increasing the share of both solar and nuclear energy will not only further reduce California's reliance on fossil fuels but also ensure a stable and reliable electricity supply.
History
The history of low-carbon energy in California shows a compelling journey, with pivotal changes primarily in hydropower and nuclear energy. In the early 2000s, notable increases were seen in nuclear in 2005, although followed by fluctuations with significant declines in nuclear generation by 2012. During the 2010s, hydropower experienced varied results with some drastic reductions and recoveries influencing its role in the state's energy matrix. Finally, 2023 saw a substantial rise in hydropower, showcasing its potential as a flexible component of the electricity mix. While the state has witnessed intermittent advancements, a strategic focus on expanding solar and nuclear energy promises a solid, sustainable energy future for California.
