- Florida’s power system remains the dirtiest in the US, with over 80% of its electricity generated from fossil fuels since June 2024.
- The state faces significant challenges in transitioning to cleaner energy due to policy restrictions and increasing power demand, maintaining a heavy reliance on natural gas.
Florida is notable for having the dirtiest central power system in the US, remaining highly dependent on fossil fuels while other states move towards cleaner energy. LSEG data shows over 80% of Florida’s electricity has been generated from fossil fuels since early June 2024, the highest share in over three years for this summer. This contrasts sharply with the national average of 62.4%, Texas’s 62%, and the southeast region’s 72%.
Florida’s fossil fuel dependency has increased in 2024, with 77.2% of its power coming from fossil sources from January 1 to August 19, up from 71.3% during the same period in 2023. This rising trend is unique among significant power networks, which show reduced fossil fuel reliance this year.
The state’s energy transition faces challenges due to recent policy decisions, including repealing renewable energy goals and banning offshore wind farms. Nearly 50 gas-fired power stations provide around 72% of Florida’s electricity, according to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA). Although coal-fired generation has decreased over the past decade, it still contributes about 5-6% of the state’s electricity, with oil-fired plants adding another 1%.
Florida’s power sector emitted over 108 million metric tons of carbon dioxide in 2023, accounting for roughly 7.4% of the nation’s power sector emissions. While this represents a 1.3% reduction from 2022, it falls short of the 5% national average decline. Comparatively, fossil-heavy states like West Virginia, Wyoming, and Colorado have achieved more significant emissions reductions.
The limited progress in Florida’s emissions cuts is attributed to several factors, including low incentives for renewable energy, limited wind resources, and the absence of a state tax credit for solar installations. Despite being the third-fastest-growing market for solar power, Florida’s wind generation remains nonexistent due to the offshore wind project ban.
Florida’s power demand continues to climb due to a growing population, increased tourism, and high air conditioner use in the state’s hot climate. As the population has grown by 20% since 2010, reaching over 23 million in 2024, the state’s power sector is expected to maintain its heavy reliance on natural gas amidst only modest expansions in clean energy.