In Australia, from July 2024 to June 2025, electricity consumption reflects a considerable reliance on fossil fuels, with more than half of the total electricity generated coming from these sources. Coal, which forms a significant portion of fossil-based electricity, contributes to almost 43% of the overall mix, whereas gas, at close to 16%, and oil, at a little more than 1.5%, complete the fossil fuel picture. Conversely, low-carbon energy types account for nearly 40% of Australia's electricity supply, showcasing the country's transition towards sustainability. Solar and wind power respectively generate about 20% and 14% of the electricity, making these the primary sources of clean energy. Hydropower, although contributing a smaller share of roughly 5%, further underlines Australia's commitment to diversifying its energy sources towards greener alternatives.
Data sources used on this page include IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Australia?
The trajectory of electricity consumption in Australia shows a worrying pattern. Despite some growth in low-carbon electricity generation, with a record of 4028 kWh/person in 2025—up by 143 kWh/person from the previous year—the overall electricity consumption per person has decreased to 10127 kWh in 2025, compared to a record high of 11613 kWh/person in 2002. This decline of 1486 kWh/person suggests a stagnant or reducing total energy demand. Such trends could be indicative of efficiency improvements or a reduction in economic or industrial activity, but they highlight the imperative to expand sustainable energy sources to ensure robust, clean electricity supply for the future without compromising growth.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Australia should continue expanding its already significant solar and wind capabilities. Countries like Denmark and US states like Iowa have demonstrated success with wind energy constituting about 59% and 60% of their electricity generation, respectively, showing powerful examples of wind's viability. Furthermore, the adoption of nuclear energy could be transformative; regions such as France and Slovakia generate more than two-thirds of their electricity from nuclear power. By learning from these regions, Australia can diversify its energy portfolio, reducing its carbon footprint and ensuring a sustainable, secure electricity supply. Leveraging solar, capitalizing on the abundant sunlight, and considering nuclear's reliability, can create a balanced and powerful clean energy system.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Australia presents both challenges and achievements. Hydropower experienced fluctuations with notable increases in 2011 and 2013 but faced significant declines in 1980, 2008, 2012, and 2015, reflecting a need for stability. However, from 2018 onward, there has been a consistent and noteworthy expansion in wind and solar. Wind energy added 2.6 TWh in 2018, culminating in an impressive 3.4 TWh increase by 2025. Solar demonstrated an even more remarkable rise, growing by 4.9 TWh in 2019 and reaching a high of 7.8 TWh in consecutive years of 2023 and 2024. These trends reflect Australia's growing commitment to clean energy and highlight avenues for further investment and development. By enhancing existing technologies and exploring new ones like nuclear, Australia can continue its progress toward a sustainable energy future.
