In Colorado's electricity landscape as of 2025, fossil fuels still slightly lead the charge, accounting for just under half of the total consumption at around 50%. The dominant fossil-based source is gas, making up close to a third, followed closely by coal which contributes nearly 22%. On the other hand, low-carbon energy sources are making significant strides, now generating a bit over 41% of the electricity. Within this category, wind power is impressive, contributing more than a quarter of the energy mix, while solar, another key contributor, adds almost 12%, with utility solar making up the majority of that contribution. Hydropower and biofuels are nearly negligible by comparison yet remain consistent parts of Colorado's clean energy portfolio. Net imports also play a role, supplying just over 8% of electricity.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Colorado?
The numbers indicate a promising upward trend in electricity consumption in Colorado, with 2025 witnessing a record high of 10,731 kWh per person, marking an increase of 288 kWh from the previous record in 2024. More crucially, low-carbon electricity generation also set a new peak, producing 4,494 kWh per person, 64 kWh more than the previous year. This growth highlights an encouraging trajectory towards increased energy usage and a gradual pivot toward cleaner energy sources, aligning with broader global trends in energy consumption and environmental responsibility. However, the pace should ideally accelerate to keep up with rising demands and to significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Suggestions
To further bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, Colorado can look to expand its existing wind and solar capacities, capitalizing on the progress already made in these areas. Drawing lessons from regions like Denmark, where wind power accounts for 60% of electricity, and leveraging successful solar strategies as seen in Nevada and California, which generate around 31% from solar, can provide blueprints for success. Additionally, the significant role that nuclear plays in countries like France, where it accounts for 67% of electricity, offers a compelling example for Colorado to consider investing in nuclear power; a powerful and proven clean energy source that can complement its current wind and solar initiatives.
History
Looking back, the recent history of low-carbon electricity in Colorado shows notable efforts, particularly in the mid-2020s where wind energy made a leap forward with a 1.5 TWh increase in 2024. Hydropower also contributed modestly during this period with a small but valuable increase. However, 2025 saw a small reduction in wind energy generation by 0.5 TWh, offset somewhat by a slight upturn in hydropower. Biofuels remained constant with no change in output. While these fluctuations reflect some variability in energy dynamics, the continuing emphasis on harnessing wind and hydropower signals Colorado's commitment to growing its clean energy footprint. Moving forward, investing in scalable and reliable clean energy solutions remains paramount to fulfilling the state's energy needs while supporting a sustainable future.
