Between June 2024 and May 2025, Illinois witnessed a robust and commendable effort in clean electricity generation. More than two-thirds of the electricity consumed during this period came from low-carbon sources, with nuclear power contributing over half of the state’s total electricity. Wind and solar, important aspects of Illinois's clean energy landscape, made up about 15% of the energy consumption combined, with wind accounting for nearly 13% and solar for slightly more than 2%. On the other hand, fossil fuels still played a significant role, with gas and coal representing almost a third of the electricity consumption. Yet, the growing focus is clearly on transitioning towards more sustainable and greener energy solutions for the future.
Is Electricity Growing in Illinois?
Looking at the trends, there is evidence of forward momentum and ambition in Illinois's electricity consumption, though it hasn't yet reached a new record in terms of total electricity use per person. While the latest figure stands at 15,091 kWh per person, it is slightly lower than the previous high of 15,774 kWh per person recorded in 2007 — a decrease of 682 kWh per person. Encouragingly, though, the clean electricity sector is showing positive growth. The most recent statistics report that low-carbon electricity generation per person has slightly surpassed the figures of the previous year, climbing by 209 kWh per person from the previous record set in 2024. This trend underlines Illinois's successful push towards an increase in clean energy adoption despite overall consumption not reaching new heights.
Suggestions
To further increase low-carbon electricity generation in Illinois, significant investments should be channeled into expanding existing nuclear and wind power capacities, which already contribute substantially to the state's clean energy outputs. Lessons can be learned from successful regions like Iowa and South Dakota, where wind power generates over 60% of electricity, showcasing a potential path for Illinois to enhance wind power contributions. Additionally, taking inspiration from France, a country where nuclear power accounts for nearly 70% of electricity, Illinois could further bolster its nuclear capabilities. On the solar front, looking towards Nevada and Lebanon, where solar contributes to nearly a third of electricity, could provide insights into expanding solar power's role in Illinois’s energy mix, ensuring a balanced and robust clean electricity network.
History
A historical glance at Illinois's low-carbon electricity journey reveals a steady and determined climb, particularly over the past two decades. The early 2000s saw significant strides in nuclear and wind power, starting with a notable increase in nuclear energy in 2007 and substantial growth in wind power from 2008 to 2013. This trend continued with further expansions in both sectors from 2016 onwards. However, the state faced challenges, especially through 2017 and 2021, with nuclear power experiencing intermittent declines. Notwithstanding these dips, the recent years saw a resurgence in both wind and nuclear contributions, punctuated by robust advancements in wind technology in 2022 and new momentum for solar power in 2025. These evolving patterns underscore Illinois’s commitment to enhancing its low-carbon electricity infrastructure, vital for a sustainable and green future.