As of 2025, Nevada's electricity generation presents a diverse mix between fossil and low-carbon sources. Fossil fuels still account for just over half of the electricity in the state, with gas being the predominant contributor at roughly 48%. Coal plays a smaller role, providing about 5%. Meanwhile, low-carbon technologies make up nearly half of Nevada's electricity supply. Solar energy is a key player, contributing over 33%, with utility-scale solar at about 29% and behind-the-meter solar at nearly 5%. Geothermal energy is also significant, supplying roughly 8% of the electricity, while hydropower accounts for close to 4%.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Nevada?
Electricity consumption per capita in Nevada appears to be on a slight decline, with total usage in 2025 at around 14,360 kWh per person, down from 14,559 kWh per person in 2024. This represents a drop of 199 kWh per person. However, it's worth celebrating that low-carbon electricity generation per capita has increased, reaching 6,700 kWh compared to the previous high of 6,231 kWh in 2024—a rise of 469 kWh per person. While overall consumption has dipped, the growth in clean electricity is a promising sign that Nevada is progressing towards a more sustainable energy future.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Nevada should consider expanding its already significant solar capacity, given its abundant sunlight and existing infrastructure. By looking at successful regions, Nevada could pursue a dual strategy of scaling up solar and integrating nuclear into its energy portfolio. For example, states like Iowa and Kansas have set strong examples with their significant wind electricity generation, which could be paralleled with solar in Nevada. Additionally, countries such as France and Slovenia, which derive substantial portions of their electricity from nuclear power, underscore the potential of nuclear to provide steady and clean electricity. Emulating these leaders through targeted solar and nuclear investments would set Nevada on a path towards more robust and cleaner electricity generation.
History
Looking at the history, Nevada's low-carbon electricity generation has seen some stable yet modest shifts. In 2024 and 2025, hydropower saw a slight increase of 0.3 TWh annually, which reflected a gradual enhancement of its contribution to the electricity mix. Meanwhile, geothermal energy experienced a minor dip of 0.3 TWh in 2024, stabilizing in 2025 without further change. Other forms of low-carbon generation, such as wind and biofuels, have remained consistent without any noticeable increase. Nevada's journey into low-carbon electricity could benefit significantly from more aggressive expansions, especially in technologies like solar and nuclear, which have shown rapid growth and capacity for large-scale, sustainable energy production in other regions.
