Electricity in Canada in 2024

In 2024, Canada's electricity consumption is heavily reliant on low-carbon energy sources, with more than 79% of its electricity being generated from clean technologies. Hydropower remains the dominant low-carbon source, producing over half of the country's electricity. Nuclear energy also contributes significantly, providing almost 14%. Wind and solar power, while smaller in proportion, combine to deliver approximately 8.5% of the country's electricity. On the other hand, fossil fuel generation still accounts for around 21% of Canada's electricity, with natural gas being the major contributor within this category and coal making up a smaller portion. This mix showcases Canada's strong commitment to reducing carbon emissions through a diverse array of low-carbon energy sources.

Suggestions

To further enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Canada can focus on expanding nuclear power, given its substantial contribution already. Learning from countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear power accounts for 68% and 62% of electricity generation, respectively, could provide valuable insights. Moreover, Canada could explore boosting its wind power capacity by examining Denmark's success, where wind accounts for 52% of electricity production. The synergy of such green energy sources will be paramount in reducing dependency on fossil fuels, combating climate change, and ensuring environmentally friendly energy production for the future.

History

Historically, Canada has recorded significant growth in low-carbon electricity, primarily through hydropower and nuclear energy. During the late 1970s and 1980s, hydropower saw increases exceeding 15 TWh annually in certain years. However, the late 1990s and early 2000s saw fluctuations, with some years witnessing declines in hydropower output. In contrast, nuclear energy depicted steady increases in the 1990s and mid-2000s, solidifying its role as a critical component of Canada's electricity mix. Recent years, however, saw some setbacks, particularly with negative hydropower changes in 2023 and 2024. Despite these challenges, Canada's commitment to low-carbon technologies remains unwavering as it continues to refine and expand its green electricity infrastructure.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources