In Idaho, electricity consumption from September 2024 to August 2025 predominantly comes from low-carbon sources, with such energy types accounting for almost half of the total electricity. Among these, hydropower represents roughly 29% of electricity usage, making it a significant component of Idaho's clean energy portfolio. Wind contributes a notable 10%, and solar follows with almost 6%, including utility-scale and behind-the-meter solar. Interestingly, net imports account for about a third of the electricity mix, while fossil energy, namely gas, makes up close to one-fifth, or around 20%. Biofuels add a small portion, approximately 2%, to Idaho's low-carbon achievements, although emphasis is on the substantial roles played by solar and wind technologies.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Idaho?
Examining the broader trends in electricity consumption reveals a decline in per capita consumption in Idaho. The current consumption stands at 14,495 kWh per person, which is a significant drop of over 3,000 kWh from the record high of 17,559 kWh per person set back in 2004. Equally concerning is the decline in per capita low-carbon electricity generation, which now ranks at 6,839 kWh per person—a drop of nearly 2,817 kWh from the 2011 record. This decrease highlights a need for Idaho to accelerate its transition to sustainable energy to meet modern energy demands and address climate-related challenges.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Idaho can expand wind energy, given its promising contribution to the electricity mix. Insights from regions like Iowa and South Dakota, where wind makes up about 60% and 57% of electricity, respectively, can guide Idaho in optimizing wind capacity. Solar energy holds significant potential as well; Nevada's successful harnessing of solar, generating 33% of its electricity, and California's 29% solar contribution offer encouraging models. Crucially, ramping up nuclear energy, as seen in countries like France with 70% nuclear electricity, or US states such as New Hampshire with 54%, can provide Idaho with a stable and reliable low-carbon energy supply, ensuring it can sustainably meet electricity demands.
History
A historical review of low-carbon electricity generation in Idaho shows considerable volatility, particularly within hydropower. Significant growth was noted in 2006 and 2011, with a 2.7 TWh and 4.3 TWh increase, respectively, yet these gains have often been followed by declines, as evident in 2007, 2012, 2013, and beyond. Wind energy, however, has generally trended upwards since its noteworthy growth began in 2011, reflecting a promising avenue for continued investment. Over the last few years, there have been small but steady increases in both hydro and wind, most recently in 2024, with hydropower up by 0.8 TWh and wind by 0.7 TWh, offering a measure of optimism in Idaho’s path towards a more robust low-carbon electricity future.
