Connecticut's electricity consumption from September 2024 through August 2025 demonstrates a reliance on both fossil and low-carbon energy sources, with a pronounced tilt towards fossil fuels. More than half of the electricity, approximately 59%, is generated from fossil-based sources, with natural gas accounting for almost the entire portion at 58.66%. On the other hand, low-carbon sources contribute roughly 40% of the state's electricity. Of this, nuclear energy is the predominant clean energy source, making up about 36% of the total electricity generation. Solar and biofuels contribute smaller shares, at 1.5% and 1.2% respectively.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Connecticut?
Assessing the growth of electricity consumption in Connecticut, recent figures highlight a decline rather than growth. The latest data shows electricity consumption at 11,769 kWh per person, marking a decrease of 453 kWh per person from the previous highest record in 2021. With regard to low-carbon electricity generation, the situation appears similar. The current low-carbon electricity generation stands at 4,695 kWh per person, down by 498 kWh per person from the 2021 record. This stagnation in overall electricity consumption and a decrease in low-carbon electricity generation emphasize the need for strategic measures to rejuvenate and enhance clean electricity production in the state.
Suggestions
To revitalize low-carbon electricity generation, Connecticut should consider expanding its existing nuclear infrastructure, given its substantial contribution to the state's clean energy mix. Observing successful regions, Connecticut can also draw valuable lessons from France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy accounts for 69% and 67% of electricity generation respectively. This demonstrates the potential of nuclear power in achieving reliable and large-scale clean energy production. Additionally, considering solar's smaller share in Connecticut, adopting lessons from regions like Lebanon and Nevada, which generate over 30% of their electricity from solar energy, could be instrumental. Expanding both nuclear and solar infrastructure will not only significantly boost Connecticut’s clean energy output but also help reduce dependency on fossil fuels, thus reducing air pollution and combating climate change.
History
Historically, Connecticut's journey with low-carbon electricity, particularly nuclear, has seen periods of fluctuation. Throughout the early 21st century, nuclear energy experienced significant variances, with years like 2005, 2008, 2011, 2016, and 2020 marking substantial decreases in generation. However, the state also witnessed increased nuclear output in years such as 2006, 2009, 2012, 2015, 2018, 2021, and a notable spike in 2024. The fluctuating pattern suggests an underlying challenge in maintaining consistent growth. Achieving stable and growing contributions from nuclear and other low-carbon sources is essential, given the critical role they play in cleaner electricity generation. Advocating for sustained investments in nuclear energy can ensure long-term stability and growth, aligning with both environmental goals and rising electricity demands.
