Over the past twelve months, from November 2024 to October 2025, Germany's electricity consumption has seen a significant reliance on low-carbon sources, with more than half of its electricity—approximately 56%—coming from clean energy. Wind power leads this segment, providing about a quarter of the electricity. Solar energy follows with a solid contribution of around 17%, and biofuels and hydropower together add a smaller yet vital share. On the other hand, fossil fuels still account for about 40% of the electricity consumed, with coal and gas almost equally divided at roughly 21% and 17%, respectively. Net imports, which could include a mix of various energy types, make up a minor fraction at about 3%. This energy mix demonstrates Germany's commitment to transitioning toward a greener future, yet it also highlights areas for potential improvement, especially in reducing fossil fuel dependence further.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, ENTSOE, Eurostat, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Germany?
In terms of growth, Germany’s electricity consumption appears to be on a downward trend compared to historical figures. The latest data shows a per capita electricity usage of 5,853 kWh, a decrease of approximately 2,052 kWh from the 2008 peak of 7,906 kWh. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation per person has also dropped; the most recent numbers at 3,296 kWh per person have declined by 529 kWh from their 2019 record. While Germany has made strides in integrating low-carbon technologies, the reduction in both overall and clean electricity use is concerning, especially as ambitious climate goals necessitate an increase in sustainable power production and consumption to support a more electrified economy.
Suggestions
To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Germany should prioritize expanding existing wind and solar capacities, given their already substantial contributions. Additionally, drawing inspiration from successful regions like France and Slovakia, which rely heavily on nuclear energy for around two-thirds of their electricity, Germany can significantly benefit from investing in new nuclear facilities. Emulating Denmark's success with wind, where nearly half of its electricity comes from wind, Germany can bolster its wind energy projects. This diversified approach, which includes staple low-carbon generation via nuclear along with wind and solar, aligns well with Germany's sustainable ambitions and can significantly lower its reliance on fossil fuels while ensuring a stable and clean electricity supply.
History
Historically, Germany has seen fluctuating developments in low-carbon electricity. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, nuclear power experienced substantial growth, with significant increases in electricity generation. However, the late 2000s marked a turning point with notable declines in nuclear output, especially in 2007, 2011, and continuously from 2020 to 2023. Despite this, wind energy has steadily risen over the last decade and continues to grow, as seen with substantial gains in 2015, 2017, 2022, and 2023. Solar and biofuels have shown modest increases in recent years, exemplified in the 2025 data. These trends indicate Germany's steadfast commitment to expanding wind and other low-carbon sources, though the consistent decline in nuclear capacity points to a missed opportunity for long-term clean energy security amidst ongoing challenges from fossil fuels.
