Over the past year, from September 2024 to August 2025, Arizona's electricity consumption has demonstrated a balanced portfolio between fossil and low-carbon energy sources. Fossil fuels, primarily driven by gas and coal, accounted for slightly more than half of the total electricity generation, contributing just over 51%. Within this category, gas played a significant role, covering more than 43%, while coal made up a smaller portion at just over 7%. On the other hand, low-carbon energy sources collectively amounted to more than 49% of the electricity generation mix. Nuclear energy was a prominent low-carbon contributor, responsible for about 26%, with solar energy making up almost a third of the low-carbon category at over 16%. Hydropower and wind made smaller contributions to the clean energy mix, providing over 4% and close to 3%, respectively.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Arizona?
Despite these figures, there is a concerning trend in Arizona as the latest total electricity consumption per person has declined from a prior high. In 2025, the consumption stood at approximately 16,022 kWh per person, marking a decrease of almost 3,000 kWh from the high point set in 2008. However, there is a silver lining in the realm of clean energy: the state's low-carbon electricity generation reached a new peak of 7,894 kWh per person, increasing by just over 400 kWh from the previous record in 2024. While the overall consumption decline presents challenges, the growth in low-carbon energy generation signals a positive shift towards sustainable practices.
Suggestions
To further increase low-carbon electricity generation, Arizona should focus on expanding its existing nuclear and solar capabilities. Given the success of states like New Mexico and Nevada in solar energy, Arizona could replicate their strategies to enhance its solar production. Furthermore, the state can look to successful regions like France and Slovakia, which have garnered more than half of their electricity from nuclear sources, demonstrating a substantial commitment to clean energy. By adopting and refining these strategies, Arizona could significantly bolster its nuclear and solar production, ensuring a cleaner electricity future.
History
Looking into the history of low-carbon electricity generation in Arizona, it's evident that both challenges and accomplishments have shaped its trajectory. Between 2005 and 2009, nuclear energy experienced fluctuations with significant declines in the mid-2000s, followed by a recovery period till 2009. The onset of substantial solar expansions began in the early 2010s when hydropower also saw a notable increase in 2011, but subsequently decreased in 2012. The solar energy build-up has been steady and impressive, with consistent annual increases from 2012 through 2025. A positive momentum in wind energy also began in 2021. These historical shifts highlight Arizona's potential to harness its natural resources effectively and develop a clean and sustainable electricity profile.
