Canada stands as a model for low-carbon electricity generation, with slightly more than 80% of its electricity derived from clean sources. This achievement is primarily enabled by hydroelectric power, which accounts for more than half of the nation's total electricity output. In addition to hydropower, nuclear energy provides nearly 14%, wind contributes close to 8%, and smaller portions come from solar and biofuels. While fossil fuels still account for nearly 20% of electricity—comprised mostly of gas and a small percentage of coal—Canada is moving steadily towards an electrified future. This momentum is crucial as the country aims to electrify more sectors, including transportation and heating, which will demand more electricity than ever before.
Is Electricity Growing in Canada?
In stark contrast to its current stellar performance in low-carbon electricity generation, Canada's overall electricity consumption has seen a reduction. As of 2025, the average electricity consumption is about 15,732 kWh per person. This is a noticeable decrease from the record high of 19,607 kWh per person in the year 2000. Similarly, the consumption of low-carbon electricity per person has fallen from its 1996 peak of approximately 15,263 kWh to the current 12,613 kWh per person. These declines raise concerns, as they suggest a stagnation in growth that could hinder future electrification goals. Addressing this downturn is essential to meeting the forecasted rise in demand due to emerging technologies and expanding electrification.
Suggestions
To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Canada should focus on the expansion of existing nuclear infrastructure. As a crucial component of the low-carbon mix, nuclear energy provides a reliable and stable electricity supply. Scaling up nuclear plants could significantly contribute to closing the gap created by the decrease in hydropower output. Alongside this, solar energy presents a promising avenue for growth and diversification within Canada’s green energy landscape. As solar power becomes more cost-effective and technologically advanced, incorporating additional solar installations will complement the existing energy mix, further strengthening Canada's commitment to clean, sustainable electricity production.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Canada is replete with opportunities seized and challenges faced. During the late 1970s through the 1980s, hydroelectric power surged with consistent increases in generation, particularly with significant boosts in 1978, 1981, and 1984. However, the late 1980s and early 1990s marked setbacks for hydro, including a notable downturn in 1989. During the early 1990s, nuclear energy made a robust comeback, with notable gains in 1993 and 1994. While hydroelectric generation saw some ups and downs into the late 2000s, nuclear continued to contribute invaluable stability to the mix. The current decade saw fluctuations, and notably in 2023 and 2024, hydroelectric production decreased significantly. These declines underscore the importance of maintaining and expanding nuclear power capacity to cushion against the variability of other sources.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.