In 2025, the electricity consumption landscape in Arkansas is characterized by a notable reliance on fossil fuels, which accounts for more than half of the total electricity mix, specifically about 63%. Gas and coal contribute to this figure, with gas supplying almost a third and coal slightly above a quarter. On the cleaner side, low-carbon electricity sources such as nuclear, solar, hydropower, and biofuels constitute approximately 37%. Nuclear energy holds the crown among these, making up nearly 23%, while solar energy, including both utility-scale and smaller installations, adds roughly 8%. Hydropower contributes close to 5%, and biofuels round out the mix with a modest 1%. These figures highlight the significant yet constrained reach of low-carbon technologies in Arkansas, underlining the need for further growth in sustainable electricity generation.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Arkansas?
Arkansas is experiencing an upward trend in electricity consumption, as evidenced by the recent increase to 21,619 kWh per person, a 901 kWh rise compared to the previous high recorded in 2023. This growth is even more impressive in the realm of low-carbon electricity generation, which saw an increase of 956 kWh per person, culminating in a total of 7,952 kWh per person this year. These increases are indicative of Arkansas's ongoing efforts to expand its clean energy portfolio. However, as demand continues to rise, further advancements in low-carbon energy generation, particularly in solar and nuclear power, will be essential to ensure clean and sustainable electricity for all Arkansans.
Suggestions
To further boost its low-carbon electricity generation, Arkansas can expand its existing nuclear facilities, leveraging the state's current capabilities to meet rising energy demands. Additionally, the state can draw inspiration from other regions excelling in solar and nuclear energy. France and Slovakia, for example, generate two-thirds of their electricity from nuclear power, showcasing the potential of this clean energy source. Similarly, lessons can be learned from solar power leaders like California and Nevada, both of which have achieved significant solar electricity shares of around 31% and 34%, respectively. These examples demonstrate the importance of investing in both solar and nuclear energy to build a resilient and sustainable electricity grid in Arkansas.
History
Historically, the journey of low-carbon electricity in Arkansas has seen fluctuations but with promising growth, particularly in recent years. In 2024, there was a slight decline in nuclear and hydropower generation, with decreases of 0.2 TWh and 0.1 TWh, respectively. However, this tide turned in 2025, with a notable increase in nuclear electricity by 0.4 TWh, complemented by modest growth in hydropower and biofuels, each advancing by 0.1 TWh. These recent gains underscore a renewed commitment to expanding clean energy sources in Arkansas, creating a foundation for continued progress towards a more sustainable and pollution-free electricity system in the years to come.
