Over the past year, from September 2024 to August 2025, Florida saw significant reliance on fossil fuel sources for electricity generation, with more than three-quarters of its electricity originating from fossil fuels. Natural gas alone contributed over 73% to this, making it the dominant energy source. Among the low-carbon energy sources, nuclear power stood out, contributing close to 11% of the state's electricity, while solar energy accounted for slightly more than 8%. Coal was responsible for just over 3%, and biofuels, as part of low-carbon sources, added slightly above 1% to the mix. Net imports contributed to a marginal 2% of the overall energy consumption, showing Florida's relative self-sufficiency in electricity production. The prominence of fossil fuels raises concerns about environmental impacts, but the state’s growing use of nuclear and solar signifies a potential shift towards cleaner energy.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Florida?
Despite notable transitions towards low-carbon electricity, Florida's overall per capita electricity consumption is on a decline. The latest figure sits at slightly below 11,500 kWh per person, showing a drop of almost 1,800 kWh from the peak in 2005. This signifies a decrease in overall electricity consumption but, interestingly, low-carbon electricity generation per person hit a new high in 2025, at over 2,300 kWh, improving by more than 150 kWh from the previous record set in 2024. The growth in low-carbon electricity is reassuring, providing evidence of Florida's progression towards cleaner energy inputs even as general consumption patterns change. However, the decline in total electricity raises concerns about meeting future demands, especially with the increasing call for electrification and technological advancements such as AI.
Suggestions
To further elevate its low-carbon electricity generation, Florida should focus on expanding its existing nuclear capabilities. Given that nuclear energy already accounts for a substantial share of its clean energy, further investments can bolster this source. Learning from global examples, the Sunshine State might also benefit by ramping up solar energy development. Regions like Nevada and Lebanon, where solar energy accounts for more than 30% of the electricity, exemplify the potential for solar-enhanced grid systems. Additionally, states like South Carolina and New Hampshire showcase successful integration of nuclear energy, where it comprises over half of their electricity production. Emulating both nuclear and solar advancements seen in these areas could position Florida as a leader in sustainable electricity generation.
History
Looking back at Florida's history of low-carbon electricity, the nuclear energy sector witnessed a mixed journey throughout the early 21st century. Around the mid-2000s, nuclear generation was unstable with consistent declines, the most serious between 2009 and 2012. However, the sector rebounded in 2013 with a significant addition to capacity. Solar energy joined the landscape more recently and has shown promise with considerable growth since 2018, particularly climbing sharply in the last few years. The consistent upsurge in solar energy output marks a positive trend and complements the stabilizing nuclear energy sector, suggesting a brighter future for sustainable electricity in Florida.
