From the period of July 2025 to June 2026, electricity consumption in Connecticut reveals a dependence on both fossil and low-carbon sources. More than half of the electricity, approximately 56%, was generated using fossil fuels, with natural gas accounting for almost all of this portion at around 54%. A small fraction, about 2%, came from oil. On the other hand, low-carbon sources contributed to roughly 43% of the electricity consumed. Nuclear power was the dominant low-carbon source, providing more than a third of the total electricity. Solar power made up nearly 6%, with behind-the-meter (BTM) installations slightly surpassing utility-scale solar. Biofuels added a little over 1% to the low-carbon mix, marking the state's ongoing efforts to maintain a varied energy portfolio.

Is Electricity Growing in Connecticut?

Electricity consumption in Connecticut is on the rise, as evidenced by a record high of 12,822 kWh per person in 2026—an increase of 246 kWh per person compared to the previous record set in 2024. This pattern of growth is also reflected in low-carbon electricity generation, which reached a new high of 5,573 kWh per person in 2026, up by 114 kWh from the prior record in 2025. This shows a promising but measured shift towards cleaner energy, yet the growing electricity demand highlights the urgency for expanding low-carbon capacity to ensure sustainable growth.

Suggestions

To strengthen its low-carbon electricity generation, Connecticut could focus on expanding its successful nuclear energy sector, given its substantial contribution to the state's electricity mix. Learning from regions that have effectively harnessed solar energy, such as Nevada and California, which generate 35% and 31% of their electricity from solar power respectively, could provide valuable insights. Furthermore, taking cues from countries like France and Slovakia, where a majority of electricity is nuclear-powered, could guide Connecticut in augmenting its nuclear infrastructure, given its existing proficiency in this area. This balanced approach, combining advancements in nuclear along with solar, can position Connecticut towards a greener and more sustainable energy future.

History

Historically, Connecticut has seen variability in its low-carbon electricity generation, with notable growth in nuclear energy in 2024, which increased by 3.2 TWh. Unfortunately, this was followed by a slight dip of 0.2 TWh in 2025, before rebounding with an increase of 0.2 TWh in 2026. Despite these fluctuations, hydro, biofuels, and wind energy have remained relatively constant with no significant changes over the past few years. These trends reflect a need for strategic investment and policy support to stabilize and grow the state’s low-carbon energy generation, particularly in the nuclear and solar sectors, while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Jul 2025 – Jun 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.