Electricity in Delaware in 2024/2025
Over the period from September 2024 to August 2025, Delaware relied heavily on net imports to meet its electricity needs, with just under 60% of its electricity being brought in from outside the state. The local generation was predominantly fossil-based, with fossil sources accounting for approximately 39% of the electricity, the majority of which came from gas (about 34%) and a small fraction from coal (nearly 3%). Noteworthy, low-carbon or clean energy made up only about 2% of the power generation, characterized by a minimal contribution from solar power (close to 1.5%). This indicates a heavy reliance on fossil fuels and external electricity sources, while having significant room to improve low-carbon electricity generation.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Delaware?
In examining electricity consumption trends in Delaware, it is apparent that there has been a reduction in overall electricity use. The latest figures from 2025 indicate a total electricity consumption of around 11,310 kWh per person, which is a significant decrease from the historic record of 15,116 kWh per person in 2005. This reflects a noticeable change of over 3,800 kWh per person less than the previous peak. Additionally, there has been a slight decline in low-carbon electricity generation as well, with 207 kWh per person recorded lately, compared to the previous high of 218 kWh per person in 2023. With both overall and low-carbon electricity consumption declining, there is concern about Delaware's ability to meet future demands, especially with the global push towards electrification and sustainable development.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Delaware can derive valuable insights from regions that have successfully integrated clean energy sources. States like New Hampshire and New Jersey have set commendable examples with their embrace of nuclear power, generating over 30% of their electricity from this sustainable source. Moreover, neighboring regions such as New Mexico and Arizona show the potential of solar power, contributing significant portions of their electricity generation from the sun. Increasing investments in both nuclear and solar energy would not only diversify Delaware’s electricity sources but also diminish its reliance on fossil fuels and imported electricity. Learning from these regions, Delaware can take strategic steps to bolster its clean energy profile.
History
In reviewing the history of low-carbon electricity in Delaware, the data from 2007 to 2025 highlights limited advancements and some missed opportunities. The early years, particularly the late 2000s, saw minor contributions from biofuels without much growth or decline. Solar power only began showing minor increments in the past few years, notably with a 0.1 TWh increase in 2023 after years of stagnation. The data reflects a lack of substantial progress in both solar and biofuels, which suggests a need for significant policy interventions and investments, particularly in solar energy, which holds immense potential for clean energy expansion. The state's history represents both the challenges and opportunities to shift towards a greener energy framework.
