California just hit an impressive milestone: in 2023, 67% of its electricity came from renewable or zero‑carbon sources—making it the largest economy in the world powered mostly by clean energy. That’s up from 61% in 2022 and a mere 41% a decade ago, showing a clear upward trajectory.

This shift isn’t passive—it reflects record-breaking efforts. In 2024 alone, California added 7 000 MW of clean energy capacity—the largest single‑year jump in state history. Solar power leads the way with over 21 000 MW on‑grid and another 19 000 MW behind the meter. Battery storage has exploded too, from near-zero to 15 000 MW, up 1 944% since 2019.

Clean energy isn’t just a novelty—it’s turning days greener. More than 90% of days in 2025 saw California’s grid run on 100% clean electricity for part of the day—averaging about 7 hours daily. Meanwhile, emissions have dropped: power-sector CO₂ is down 50% since 2009, even as the state’s GDP grew 78% since 2000.

These gains come amid federal uncertainty: Trump-era subsidy cuts threaten future expansion, but clean-tech groups are urging California to accelerate local approvals and procurement.

California’s clean-energy surge proves it’s possible to grow economically and shrink carbon footprints—showing a path for other nations to follow.