From September 2024 to August 2025, Nevada's electricity consumption illustrates a diverse energy mix, with slightly more than half deriving from fossil fuels. Specifically, gas alone accounts for almost half of the total electricity, representing 48.5%, while coal contributes a modest 5.19%. On the other hand, low-carbon sources stand out by providing nearly an equal share, 46.72% of the state's electricity. Among them, solar energy plays a central role, contributing more than a third of the electricity, with utility solar at 28.78% and behind-the-meter (BTM) solar at 4.66%. Geothermal and hydropower are smaller contributors to this low-carbon mix, at 8.09% and 4.34% respectively. This balanced reliance on both fossil and low-carbon energy signifies Nevada's potential to transition further towards greener electricity.
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Is Electricity Growing in Nevada?
Electricity consumption in Nevada has seen a decrease from its peak in 2005, when it reached 16,534 kWh per person, compared to 14,437 kWh per person recently, a decline of 2,097 kWh. However, there's a silver lining as Nevada has successfully increased its low-carbon electricity generation. The latest figures show a rise to 6,745 kWh per person from 6,231 kWh in just a year, marking an improvement of 514 kWh. Despite the overall decline in total consumption, the state’s focus on expanding clean, low-carbon energy such as solar is a promising development in its energy strategy, as the growth in low-carbon generation helps reduce the environmental impact associated with fossil fuel reliance.
Suggestions
To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Nevada can look to expand its existing solar infrastructure, given its successful track record in tapping energy from this source. Emulating regions with a strong clean energy track record can provide strategic insights. For instance, New Mexico is noteworthy with 38% of electricity from wind power, and Arizona produces 26% from nuclear energy. Additionally, Iowa and South Dakota rely heavily on wind for 60% and 56% of their electricity, respectively. These regions demonstrate the potential of both solar and wind, with the added benefit of nuclear energy, to create a robust low-carbon electricity grid. Expanding these technologies could propel Nevada toward a more sustainable and independent energy future.
History
In the history of low-carbon electricity in Nevada, several key developments stand out, indicating an increasing reliance on clean sources. In the early 21st century, geothermal energy incrementally rose, with notable increases in 2009, 2010, and 2015, collectively adding around 1 TWh. Solar energy began its ascent more recently, with visible growth starting in 2013 when it added 0.3 TWh. Conversely, hydropower's contribution has fluctuated, with modest increases in certain years, such as 2006, 2009, and 2025, but periods of decline in other years, including 2010, 2014, and 2022. These shifts underline the dynamic nature of Nevada's energy landscape, emphasizing the need for continuous investment and innovation in low-carbon technologies to ensure a steady and increasing supply of green electricity.
