From June 2024 to May 2025, Colorado's electricity consumption was divided among several energy sources with fossil fuels accounting for slightly more than half of the total electricity generation. Specifically, coal and gas were the primary fossil fuels utilized, covering 28.64% and 27.77% of consumption respectively. On the low-carbon front, Colorado generated almost 40% of its electricity from clean sources. Wind energy was a major contributor here, responsible for 28.55% of the total mix, making it nearly as significant as coal. Solar power provided 8.37%, lending a noteworthy share to low-carbon contributions. Net imports and hydropower produced small portions of the overall electricity, at 3.53% and 2.96% respectively. This landscape highlights the shift towards cleaner energy, though fossil fuels remain a significant part of the equation.
Is Electricity Growing in Colorado?
Analyzing electricity consumption trends in Colorado reveals a concerning decline. The latest data shows electricity consumption at 10,070 kWh per person, which represents a decrease of 1,171 kWh per person compared to the peak of 11,241 kWh per person back in 2007. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation has faced a slight decline with the current generation amounting to 4,026 kWh per person, down by 54 kWh from the previous year's record. These declines suggest stagnation in both overall and low-carbon electricity consumption, which is troubling given the growing need for clean energy to combat environmental challenges and meet future demands in electrification.
Suggestions
To boost its low-carbon electricity generation, Colorado should prioritize expanding its wind energy capabilities, given its already substantial share in the electricity mix. Moreover, the state can learn from other successful regions like Iowa and South Dakota, where wind energy contributes 62% and 60% respectively. Additionally, considering the success of nuclear energy in states like New Hampshire and Illinois, which generate over 50% of electricity through nuclear power, Colorado should explore investing in nuclear power plants. In the realm of solar energy, states like Nevada show promising examples with up to 29% electricity generation from solar power. By integrating these strategies, Colorado can significantly increase its clean electricity output and decrease reliance on fossil fuels.
History
Historically, Colorado's journey towards low-carbon electricity has witnessed significant developments. During the early 2000s, the state experienced moderate growth in wind energy, with notable increments in 2005 and 2007. In the subsequent years, particularly from 2008 to 2016, wind energy saw substantial growth, with incremental annual increases peaking at 1.9 TWh in both 2008 and 2016. The early 2020s have been promising too, with consistent annual growth in wind energy alongside notable advancements in solar power, particularly in 2022 and 2023. Despite a slight decline in wind energy in 2023, the positive trend in low-carbon electricity emphasizes Colorado's commitment to cleaner energy, offering a strong foundation for future growth.