Denmark is leading the charge in clean electricity generation, obtaining more than 85% of its electricity from low-carbon sources. Wind energy constitutes the largest portion, contributing almost 60% to the clean electricity mix. Solar energy generates over 13% of the total electricity, alongside biofuels which account for nearly 15%. The nation relies comparatively little on fossil energy, with coal and gas making up slightly over 14% in total. Furthermore, Denmark stands out as a significant net exporter of electricity, positively influencing neighboring regions by lowering their reliance on fossil fuels. However, Denmark faces the challenge of further electrifying sectors such as transport, heating, and industry, necessitating even greater electricity generation.
Is Electricity Growing in Denmark?
Despite the impressive share of clean energy, overall electricity consumption in Denmark is currently less than in previous decades, with each person using an average of approximately 5,325 kWh annually as of 2025. This is a substantial decline from the historic peak in 1996, where the consumption per person was just over 10,181 kWh. Alarmingly, even low-carbon electricity generation per capita has decreased, marking a significant reduction of nearly 670 kWh per person from the previous year's record of 5,226 kWh. This trend is concerning as it indicates stagnation rather than growth, precisely when an increase in clean electricity is crucial for advancing electrification and reducing emissions.
Suggestions
To bolster low-carbon electricity production, Denmark should focus on expanding its already successful wind and solar capacities. Wind energy, the cornerstone of Denmark’s clean electricity, should be harnessed further by utilizing both onshore and offshore wind farms. Meanwhile, solar energy, proving its potential with recent gains, must be scaled up significantly to contribute a larger share. Additionally, considering the minimal risk and high yield associated with nuclear energy, introducing this as another pillar to Denmark’s green energy strategy would be wise. Collectively, these expansions will help the country meet future electricity demands, hasten the transition towards a carbon-neutral society, and sustain Denmark's leadership in combating climate change.
History
Denmark's commitment to low-carbon electricity can be traced through various periods of innovation and growth. In the early 2000s, Denmark regularly increased its wind energy output, with notable boosts in 2000 and again between 2004 and 2010. The momentum only grew in the following decade, where both wind and biofuels saw significant increases, particularly in 2011 and the years between 2014 and 2019. Most notably, in 2021, biofuels made a substantial leap, while solar started showing consistent growth by 2022, which continued into 2023. However, 2025 saw a concerning dip, with decreases in both wind and biofuel generation. Moving forward, Denmark needs to apply lessons from its history of clean energy expansion to navigate these recent downturns.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.