Natural gas use for electricity in California falls as solar generation rises
13 days ago
- #solar-power
- #energy-trends
- #California
- Natural gas remains the largest source of electricity in California, but its generation has declined in recent years.
- Solar generation in California nearly doubled from 22.0 BkWh in 2020 to 40.3 BkWh in the first eight months of 2025.
- Natural gas supplied 45.5 BkWh of electricity in the first eight months of 2025, an 18% decrease compared to 2020.
- During drought years, hydroelectric output decreases, leading to increased reliance on natural gas.
- Solar generation peaks during midday, reducing natural gas usage, while battery storage helps displace natural gas during peak evening hours.
- Battery storage from excess solar generation increased from less than 1 GW in 2022 to 4.9 GW in 2025.