In Nevada in 2025, electricity consumption is primarily powered by both fossil and low-carbon energy sources, with a slight majority coming from fossil fuels. Gas dominates this sector, constituting nearly half of the total electricity consumption. However, Nevada is making strides towards cleaner energy, with low-carbon sources making up almost half of the electricity consumed. Solar power leads among these, accounting for more than a third, divided between utility solar and behind-the-meter installations. Geothermal power also contributes a significant share, close to a tenth, while coal and hydropower are responsible for a smaller portion of Nevada's electricity mix. The balance between fossil and clean energy indicates an important transition point for the state as it continues to increase its reliance on low-carbon electricity sources.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Nevada?
In terms of electricity consumption per person, Nevada experienced a slight decline in 2025 compared to the previous year. The average consumption fell to 14,360 kWh per person, down from the 2024 record of 14,559 kWh per person. While this overall decline might concern some, it's noteworthy that low-carbon electricity generation actually increased, reaching 6,700 kWh per person from the previous record of 6,231 kWh per person in 2024. This increase by 469 kWh reflects a positive trend toward cleaner energy despite the overall decrease in electricity consumption, indicating a focused shift towards sustainable energy practices essential for long-term environmental goals.
Suggestions
To further enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Nevada should focus on expanding its existing solar capabilities, given that solar already plays a significant role in the state's energy mix. Learning from regions with successful implementations, Nevada could look to other areas that have utilized nuclear and wind energy effectively. For example, states like Arizona and New Jersey have both effectively incorporated nuclear energy into their broader energy strategy, with nuclear making up significant portions of their low-carbon electricity generation. Additionally, observing the success of wind energy in states like Iowa and Denmark could provide insights into diversifying Nevada’s clean energy portfolio. By integrating these strategies, Nevada could bolster its low-carbon electricity production, offering a model for sustainable energy infrastructure while decreasing reliance on fossil fuels.
History
In the past few years, Nevada has been consistent in making incremental progress in expanding its low-carbon electricity infrastructure, focusing mainly on hydropower and geothermal energy. For instance, 2024 and 2025 saw modest increases in hydropower, each year contributing an additional 0.3 TWh. However, geothermal energy faced a minor setback in 2024, experiencing a slight decline, but remained stable in 2025 alongside wind and biofuels, which have not shown significant change recently. While progress in expanding wind and biofuels has been slow, Nevada's steady maintenance of these systems highlights a commitment to fostering sustainable electricity sources over the long term. Therefore, the continually improving record of low-carbon electricity reflects the state's dedication to achieving substantial clean energy goals.
