In Nevada, electricity consumption remains primarily split between fossil energy and low-carbon energy sources. More than half of the electricity, about 54%, is produced from fossil fuels, with natural gas accounting for the majority at almost 48%, while coal contributes a smaller share at around 5%. Low-carbon electricity sources are responsible for almost 47% of Nevada's total electricity. Solar energy takes the lead within the low-carbon category, providing almost a third of the electricity generated, with utility-scale solar accounting for most of this share and a smaller fraction coming from behind-the-meter solar installations. Geothermal and hydropower contribute close to 8% and 4%, respectively. This energy mix indicates a strong foundation for low-carbon energy production, yet there is still a significant reliance on fossil fuels.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Nevada?
Despite this progress towards low-carbon energies, Nevada's overall electricity consumption is on a slight decline. In 2025, the electricity consumption per person was 14,360 kWh, a decrease of 199 kWh from the previous year's record in 2024. This decline in total electricity use is concerning, given the increasing demand for electrification and new technologies. However, it is encouraging to note that low-carbon electricity generation has increased, with the latest statistics showing 6,700 kWh per person, up by 469 kWh from the previous record. This growth in low-carbon electricity is a positive trend amidst the overall decrease in electricity consumption, reflecting an increase in the share of cleaner electricity, especially with the expansion of solar energy.
Suggestions
To enhance and increase low-carbon electricity generation, Nevada should continue to expand its solar capabilities, focusing on both utility-scale and distributed solar projects. Moreover, Nevada can learn from successful regions by taking inspiration from nuclear-friendly countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy forms a significant part of their electricity generation, with shares of 67% and 66% respectively. Similarly, embracing wind energy as seen in Denmark and Iowa, where wind contributes substantially to their electricity needs, could further diversify Nevada’s clean energy portfolio. By emphasizing solar and exploring nuclear options, Nevada could significantly boost its low-carbon electricity generation and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.
History
Historically, Nevada's journey into expanding its low-carbon electricity generation has shown periods of growth, punctuated by changes in specific energy types. For example, during 2024 and 2025, there were moderate gains in hydropower, adding 0.3 TWh in both years to Nevada's electricity generation mix. However, there were no significant changes reported in 2024 and 2025 in other low-carbon sources such as wind, geothermal, and biofuels. This period exemplifies a lack of aggressive development which could have accelerated the transition to clean energy. To ensure a sustainable and resilient energy future, continued investment and policy support for low-carbon technologies, particularly solar and nuclear energy, are vital for Nevada.
