Over the past year from July 2025 to June 2026, Colorado's electricity consumption has shown a balanced reliance on both fossil and low-carbon energy sources. Fossil fuels, primarily natural gas and coal, make up slightly less than half of the state's electricity consumption, with gas accounting for almost a third and coal producing roughly 15% of the electricity. On the low-carbon front, wind leads the charge by generating approximately 27% of electricity, followed by solar, which contributes around 14% when combining utility and behind-the-meter installations. Hydropower adds a modest 3%, while net imports supplement the energy mix. Despite the promising share of clean sources, the near-equal reliance on fossil and clean energy highlights room for further growth in low-carbon generation to cut emissions associated with fossil fuel usage.

Is Electricity Growing in Colorado?

Colorado's electricity consumption is on a positive trajectory, albeit with modest growth. The latest data indicates that per capita electricity consumption has reached 10,762 kWh, showing a slight increase of 32 kWh compared to the previous record high in 2025. Notably, this increase aligns with a more substantial surge in low-carbon electricity generation, which rose by 292 kWh per person. This encouraging boost in low-carbon output marks significant progress from prior years and represents a crucial step in meeting higher future demand while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. However, the incremental nature of this progress suggests that Colorado should continue to focus on scaling up its clean energy capacity.

Suggestions

To enhance its low-carbon electricity production, Colorado should invest in expanding wind and solar capabilities, drawing inspiration from regions like Iowa and Denmark, where wind contributes more than half of electricity. Additionally, nuclear energy should be systematically integrated into Colorado's energy mix, drawing lessons from states like South Carolina and New Hampshire, where nuclear power reliably accounts for a significant portion of electricity generation. By pursuing a diverse portfolio of green energy sources, including wind, solar, and nuclear, Colorado can sustainably increase its low-carbon electricity output while enjoying the environmental and economic benefits this transition will bring.

History

Historically, Colorado's low-carbon electricity generation has experienced fluctuating growth over recent years. A notable increase occurred in 2024 when wind power surged by 1.5 TWh, complemented slightly by a 0.1 TWh rise in hydropower. However, this momentum faced a setback as wind generation slightly declined by 0.5 TWh in 2025, though hydropower compensated with an uplift. In 2026, wind generation recovered by adding 0.6 TWh, coupled with a consistent 0.2 TWh rise in hydro. These years demonstrate Colorado's potential to enhance its sustainable electricity supply despite some setbacks. To build a resilient low-carbon energy system, consistent commitment to expanding green energy sources is essential.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

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