In 2025, Canada's electricity generation primarily relies on low-carbon sources, with such clean energy accounting for almost 79% of the total electricity mix. Hydropower stands out significantly, representing over half of the country's total electricity generation. Other low-carbon contributors include nuclear energy, producing about 13% of the nation's electricity, and wind, which contributes a little over 8%. Fossil fuels still make up a noticeable portion, constituting around 21% of the electricity mix. Gas is the dominant fossil fuel, with coal making up almost 4%. Solar and biofuels currently add a smaller fraction, together barely contributing more than 3%, highlighting areas for potential growth in cleaner energy sectors.
Data sources used on this page include IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Canada?
While electricity generation is crucial for Canada, data from 2025 reveal concerning trends. Currently, electricity consumption per person is approximately 15,646 kWh, significantly lower than the record levels of nearly 19,607 kWh per person recorded in 2000. The drop in low-carbon electricity generation is also evident, with current figures at 12,346 kWh per person, compared to the high of 15,263 kWh seen in 1996. Such declines are worrying, suggesting that Canada is not expanding its electricity supply in line with past growth levels, potentially hindering its ability to meet future demand and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Suggestions
To reverse these trends and boost low-carbon electricity generation, Canada could greatly benefit from expanding its nuclear facilities, taking inspiration from successful countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear power comprises over 65% of their electricity generation. Investing in nuclear energy provides a reliable and steady electricity supply while supporting sustainability goals. Additionally, Canada could learn from states like Iowa and countries such as Denmark, where wind energy constitutes a substantial portion of their energy mix, highlighting the potential for increased investment in wind infrastructure. The potential for solar energy is also promising; regions like Nevada generate over 30% of their electricity from solar. Leveraging a combination of increased nuclear and solar capacity can significantly enhance clean electricity production in Canada.
History
Reflecting on Canada's history of low-carbon electricity, the late 20th and early 21st century saw several periods of hydroelectric expansion, with notable growth in the late 1970s and early 1980s. However, the 1990s and early 2000s also included fluctuations with some declines, notably in hydroelectric power. Nuclear generation saw growth during the mid-1990s and the early 2000s, yet these were not sustained at a pace necessary to keep up with potential demand throughout the 21st century. More recent years reveal variable trends in hydroelectricity generation, including significant declines, which indicate a lack of consistent strategic planning for the long term. Such variability in low-carbon electricity sources highlights the need for a robust renewable and nuclear strategy moving forward to ensure a stable and sustainable energy future for Canada.
