In Canada, electricity consumption in 2025 demonstrates a substantial reliance on low-carbon energy sources, which make up approximately 79% of the country's electricity mix. Hydropower, as the dominant source of clean electricity, contributes more than half of this figure at 55%. Nuclear energy also plays a crucial role, providing nearly 13% of the country's electricity. Wind and solar follow, contributing around 8% and 1% respectively. Biofuels, another low-carbon source, account for just over 1.5%. On the other hand, fossil fuels, comprising gas and coal, still account for almost 21% of the electricity mix, highlighting an area for improvement in the transition towards greener energy sources. Gas is the primary fossil fuel used, representing nearly 18%, while coal accounts for a little over 2%.
Is Electricity Growing in Canada?
Despite having a significant reliance on low-carbon energy, Canada's electricity consumption has not grown to new heights. The latest figures show per capita electricity consumption of approximately 15,673 kWh, which is lower than the historic record in the year 2000 by about 4,000 kWh per person. Similarly, the low-carbon electricity generation per capita has decreased compared to the high point in 1996 by nearly 3,000 kWh. These reductions are disappointing, particularly when considering the critical need for more electricity to support the electrification of industries and transportation, not to mention future advancements like the increasing demand driven by AI technologies.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Canada can focus on expanding its existing nuclear capacity, given its significant contribution to clean electricity. Moreover, by learning from successful regions such as France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy contributes upwards of 65% of their electricity, Canada can increase its nuclear energy share further. Additionally, considering the success in wind energy from countries like Denmark, where wind provides over half of the electricity, and regions like Iowa, similar strategies could be beneficial. Solar energy also offers potential for growth, as demonstrated by places like Nevada and California, where solar contributes significantly to their electricity generation. By adopting these strategies and focusing on nuclear and solar expansion, Canada can further solidify its commitment to low-carbon electricity.
History
Looking at the history of low-carbon electricity in Canada, several trends become clear. During the late 1970s and 1980s, there was notable growth in hydropower, evidenced by increments in electricity generation. The 1990s and early 2000s saw fluctuations, with nuclear energy making a significant leap in 1993 and 1994. Hydropower continued to fluctuate, with notable expansions in the early 2000s but a concerning decline in recent years, culminating in a significant drop in 2023. This trend underscores the importance of not only maintaining but boosting clean energy sources like nuclear. With the history of consistent dependency on hydropower, combined with the potential of nuclear and emerging solar capabilities, Canada should prioritize these low-carbon sources in its future electricity strategy.
