Over the past year, from May 2025 to April 2026, Mexico's electricity consumption has been heavily reliant on fossil energy sources, with these accounting for more than 70% of the total electricity generated. The most predominant among the fossil sources is gas, which alone contributes over 60% to the total electricity mix. Clean, low-carbon energy sources, although essential for sustainable growth, make up less than a quarter of the total electricity share. Within the low-carbon category, hydropower leads slightly with about 9%, followed closely by solar and wind each contributing around 6%. Nuclear energy, while a critical part of the low-carbon strategy, currently plays a minimal role, providing just under 3% of the electricity consumed in Mexico.

Is Electricity Growing in Mexico?

Electricity consumption in Mexico seems to have reached a plateau, with the latest figures slightly under those of the record year 2024, resulting in a very small decline. Currently, the average Mexican consumes approximately 2770 kWh per year, which is just a fraction less than the previous peak. Worryingly, low-carbon electricity generation has also slightly decreased compared to its peak in 2021, now standing at 689 kWh/person. Such stagnation in overall and low-carbon electricity consumption might not keep pace with future demands, highlighting an urgent need for a strategic plan to enhance electricity generation, especially from clean sources.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Mexico could look to successful regions for guidance. For instance, California and Nevada have shown strong solar energy integration, with more than 30% of their electricity coming from sunlight, demonstrating a viable model for Mexico's abundant solar resources. As for nuclear, countries like France and Slovakia have made remarkable strides, deriving over half of their electricity from nuclear power. By replicating these successful strategies, Mexico can significantly boost its clean energy capacity. Investing in solar and nuclear not only promises a decrease in dependence on fossil fuels but also fosters a sustainable, climate-friendly growth trajectory.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Mexico reveals periods of fluctuation, particularly in hydropower. Events of note include a significant injection in hydroelectricity generation in the late 2000s, especially in 2008 and 2014, with increases around 10 TWh. However, these were often followed by sharp declines, such as the one in 2009, highlighting inconsistency in hydroelectric capabilities. More recently, after some losses in 2023, hydropower saw a slight rebound in 2025. Meanwhile, solar and wind have made progressive gains, especially noticeable in 2019 and 2020, establishing a foundation for a diversified clean energy future. This past decade of progress should inspire Mexico to solidify its focus on scaling up sustainable sources like solar and nuclear to ensure energy stability and growth.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (May 2025 – Apr 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.