As of 2024, Florida's electricity consumption shows a marked reliance on fossil fuels, making up nearly 80% of the total. Natural gas stands out as the predominant source within this category, powering nearly three-quarters of the state's electricity needs. In contrast, low-carbon energy sources like nuclear and solar contribute almost 19% combined, with nuclear energy accounting for more than half of this share at about 11% and solar providing around 7%. Coal and biofuels contribute only marginally to the mix, with coal powering just under 3% and biofuels closer to 1%. Net imports make up a minor part of Florida's electricity supply. This heavy reliance on fossil fuels is cause for concern due to their significant environmental impacts and the urgent need for sustainable alternatives.
Is Electricity Growing in Florida?
Despite a notable decline in total electricity consumption in Florida since 2005, current levels suggest a potential shift in energy dynamics. Electric usage per person in 2024 is 11,488 kWh, a significant drop from the peak consumption of 13,273 kWh per person seen in 2005. However, on a more promising note, low-carbon energy generation is on the rise, standing at 2175 kWh per person in 2024, slightly higher than the previous record in 2022. This increase in clean energy is encouraging and suggests a shift towards a more sustainable energy future, though the overall reduction in electricity usage highlights challenges in growth that need to be addressed.
Suggestions
For Florida to boost its low-carbon electricity generation, a dual focus on expanding nuclear and solar capacities would be effective. Further investment in nuclear energy can harness Florida's existing infrastructure, as seen in countries like France and Slovakia, where more than half of the electricity comes from nuclear power. Solar growth could be informed by successful examples from regions like Lebanon and Nevada, which generate a significant share of their electricity from solar energy. By learning from these successful regions, Florida can diversify its low-carbon sources effectively. Strategic policy shifts and investments in modernizing the grid to accommodate more solar and nuclear input will be key to making this transition.
History
Looking back on Florida's history of low-carbon electricity generation, nuclear power has experienced a variable trajectory. Beginning with notable declines in the late 2000s—most prominently a significant drop around 2010—the industry saw revitalizations, like the considerable increase in 2013. However, by 2024, nuclear generation faced a slight decline of 0.9 TWh from the previous year. On the other hand, solar power has been steadily gaining ground since 2018, with annual increases and reaching a significant 4.6 TWh rise in 2024. The consistent growth in solar power generation exemplifies Florida's potential in expanding its low-carbon energy capacity, despite the mixed record in nuclear production over the years. This highlights the urgency to stabilize and boost nuclear output in tandem with further solar developments.