Over the past 12 months, from April 2025 to March 2026, Illinois has seen a diverse energy mix in its electricity generation. More than two-thirds of electricity generation comes from low-carbon sources, with nuclear energy contributing almost half of this total at around 50%. Wind and solar energy together account for about 18% of the state's electricity, demonstrating Illinois' commitment to sustainable energy. Meanwhile, fossil fuel-based electricity still occupies a significant share at roughly 32%, with gas at about 17% and coal over 15%. This blend of energy sources underscores a substantial reliance on clean electricity, although there remains room for growth, particularly in reducing dependency on fossil fuels and their associated impacts like climate change and air pollution.

Is Electricity Growing in Illinois?

While electricity consumption in Illinois appears stable, there are subtle signs of a downward trend in overall usage. In 2026, residents consumed 15,477 kWh per person, a minor decrease from the 2025 record of 15,499 kWh per person. On the other hand, low-carbon electricity generation per person slightly exceeded its previous record, reaching 10,444 kWh per person in 2026, up from 10,438 the year before. Despite this progress in low-carbon electricity, the overall decline in consumption presents a concerning stagnation in growth, an area needing urgent attention to keep up with increasing electrification demands.

Suggestions

Illinois can enhance its low-carbon electricity generation by expanding its successful nuclear and wind energy sectors. With nuclear energy already providing a substantial portion of clean electricity, further investment here could be invaluable. Illinois can also learn from states like Iowa, where wind farms contribute an impressive 57% of electricity generation, and international peers such as France, where nuclear accounts for 67% of electricity. By increasing wind installations and possibly venturing into more solar projects, drawing inspiration from states like Nevada with solar making up 34% of electricity, Illinois could reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and significantly bolster its clean energy output.

History

Historically in Illinois, low-carbon electricity generation has evolved notably. In 2024, the state saw a substantial increase in wind energy by 3.1 TWh and nuclear by 1.7 TWh. However, the subsequent years witnessed some disappointments, including a decline in nuclear output by 1.5 TWh in 2025 and a further decrease of 0.5 TWh in 2026. Wind energy growth stalled, showing negligible increases over the last couple of years. Despite these setbacks, there have been no significant advances or declines in biofuels and hydroelectricity, which have remained constant. These trends highlight the need for renewed focus and investment in expanding the state's low-carbon electricity capacity, particularly emphasizing nuclear and wind to ensure a stable and growing energy future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

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