Over the last twelve months, from September 2024 to August 2025, Russia's electricity consumption reflects a notable reliance on fossil fuels alongside a significant proportion of low-carbon energy sources. Fossil energy, primarily driven by gas and coal, accounts for just under two-thirds of the electricity supply, with gas providing almost half. Meanwhile, low-carbon energy sources contribute slightly more than a third. Nuclear power stands as the leading low-carbon energy source, supplying nearly a fifth of the electricity, followed closely by hydropower. The data underscores a distinct divide between fossil and low-carbon energy, highlighting both the challenges and potentials in increasing the share of clean energy.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember, Energy Institute and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Russia?
Observing electricity consumption trends reveals a decline in per capita usage in Russia. The latest figures show that each person consumed 7,963 kWh, a slight drop from the previous peak in 2024, which stood at 8,042 kWh per person. In parallel, low-carbon electricity generation per capita has also decreased, with recent numbers falling by 157 kWh per person compared to the 2021 peak. These declines are concerning as they signal not growth but regression, at a time when more clean electricity is needed to power future developments sustainably and mitigate environmental impacts.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Russia could focus on expanding its nuclear capabilities, given the substantial current contribution of nuclear power. Learning from regions like Slovakia and France, where nuclear accounts for significant portions of electricity generation, Russia can prioritize building new reactors and upgrading existing ones. Moreover, exploring solar energy, as seen successfully in regions like Nevada and Chile, should be part of Russia's strategy. In particular, lessons from Ukraine, which also leans heavily on nuclear, could inform how Russia might address the challenges and opportunities of scaling its green energy footprint.
History
The historical trajectory of low-carbon electricity in Russia reveals significant moments of change. In the late 1980s, nuclear power saw considerable growth, but the worrying declines in the 1990s underscored the need for consistent support and development of nuclear infrastructure. The past decade has shown variability in hydropower production, with both growth and setbacks. However, the advancement of nuclear energy in 2015 highlights its crucial role in Russia's clean energy landscape. A steadfast commitment to low-carbon sources, particularly by bolstering nuclear and exploring solar, could propel Russia into a prominent position in global sustainable energy production.
