In 2025, Canada sustains a remarkable reliance on low-carbon electricity sources, with more than three-quarters of its electricity, approximately 79%, coming from clean energy. Hydropower remains the dominant source, providing more than half of the country's electricity. Nuclear energy contributes close to 13%, while wind and solar add about 8% and 1% respectively. On the other hand, fossil fuels have a more modest presence, with about 21% of the electricity generated from these sources. The largest fossil fuel contributor is natural gas at over 16%, followed by coal at about 4%. Biofuels are present but account for an almost negligible proportion of the energy mix.
Data sources used on this page include IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Canada?
Despite the impressive proportion of low-carbon energy, Canada's per capita electricity consumption has decreased over the years. The current consumption stands at around 15,646 kWh per person, a 20% decrease from the record high in 2000. This includes a reduction of 3,962 kWh per person compared to that time. Furthermore, low-carbon electricity generation per person ranks at 12,346 kWh, down by almost 20% from its peak in 1996. The decline in both total and low-carbon electricity generation is concerning, emphasizing the urgent need for expansion to support the growing demands of electrification and technology advancements like AI.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Canada could significantly benefit from the expansion of its nuclear capacity, as nuclear energy is already a key low-carbon contributor. By learning from countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear provides over 60% of their electricity, Canada can potentially increase its nuclear output. Additionally, Canada can turn to regions like Denmark and Iowa, which excel in harnessing wind power, to further harness wind energy. Solar power, though a small part of Canada’s current mix, has the potential for growth as seen in Nevada and California, where solar provides around one-third of electricity. Expanding both nuclear and solar capacity would not only support Canada's clean energy goals but also ensure energy sustainability and resilience.
History
Analyzing Canada's history of low-carbon electricity generation reveals prominent growth periods and moments of decline. In the late 1970s and mid-1980s, hydropower experienced notable increments, as shown by substantial gains in electricity generation. Nuclear also saw increases, notably in the early 1990s. However, starting around the late 1990s, there were notable fluctuations in hydropower, with significant decreases observed in 2023. These declines spotlight the critical need to stabilize and boost Canada's clean energy mix, ensuring consistent growth in nuclear energy and exploring more robust engagements in solar and wind energy for a sustainable future.
