As of the most recent data from July 2025 to June 2026, California's electricity consumption landscape demonstrates a strong leaning towards low-carbon energy sources, with more than half of the electricity consumed coming from these sources. Solar energy, including both utility-scale and behind-the-meter installations, emerges as the dominant player, representing almost a third of total consumption. Fossil energy continues to play a significant role but is limited to just over a fifth of the total, with gas making up nearly all of the fossil energy share. A noteworthy portion of California's electricity is also sourced through net imports, accounting for slightly more than a fifth of the total. Other low-carbon sources such as hydropower, nuclear, wind, and geothermal contribute smaller, yet important, shares to the state's energy mix.

Is Electricity Growing in California?

Regarding the growth in electricity consumption, the trend in California appears relatively mixed. The latest figures for total electricity consumption account for 7586 kWh per person, which represents a slight decline of 114 kWh per person compared to the previous record set in 2024. In contrast, there's a small yet promising growth in low-carbon electricity generation, with recent data indicating 4312 kWh per person, showcasing a marginal increase of 52 kWh per person over the previous year's record. While total electricity consumption stagnation might raise concerns, the uptick in the low-carbon sector hints at a positive direction in California's pursuit of sustainable energy solutions.

Suggestions

To enhance the state's low-carbon electricity generation, California should prioritize the expansion of solar energy installations further, given its already significant contribution to the state's electricity mix. By drawing inspiration from regions such as France and South Carolina, which extensively harness nuclear energy, California could augment its clean energy portfolio with a robust nuclear initiative. Additionally, the state can look to states like Iowa and Kansas, which efficiently use wind power, to further diversify its renewable portfolio. Expanding the scope of both solar and nuclear energy will better position California to increase its green electricity output effectively, contributing meaningfully to reductions in climate-change-inducing emissions and fostering sustainable growth.

History

Examining the history of low-carbon electricity in California reveals a dynamic landscape. In the mid-2020s, notable fluctuations occurred across various green energy sectors. For instance, the year 2024 saw a significant dip in hydropower output, while wind energy made considerable gains the same year. Nuclear energy experienced modest growth throughout the period, which was crucial in counteracting the drops in other low-carbons like biofuels and geothermal. However, an alarming drop in nuclear generation in 2025, despite a resurgence in 2026, underscores the importance of consistency and expansion in this area. As the state refines its strategies to enrich its clean electricity portfolio, prioritizing sustained growth in nuclear—as seen in nuclear-forward regions—should be a key component of its energy planning. This cautious but firm advancement towards clean electricity generation is essential for California's energy resilience and environmental goals.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Jul 2025 – Jun 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.