In Illinois in the year 2025, electricity consumption reveals a promising inclination towards low-carbon sources. Almost 70% of electricity is generated from clean energy, with nuclear power alone contributing nearly half of the total consumption. Fossil fuel sources still constitute about one-third of the electricity, with natural gas and coal fairly splitting this portion in half. Within the segment of low-carbon power, wind energy plays a significant role, providing just over 12% of the total, while solar energy, though smaller at a little less than 5%, shows considerable potential for growth, especially with both utility-scale and back-to-meter solar making contributions. This clean electricity mix indicates Illinois's strong commitment to reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Illinois?
Electricity consumption in Illinois is indeed on the rise, setting a new record of 15,499 kWh per person in 2025, showing an increase of 807 kWh over the previous record set in 2024. This upward trend is mirrored in the growth of low-carbon electricity generation, which also hit a new high of 10,438 kWh per person, surpassing the previous record from 2024 by 273 kWh. This growth in both total and low-carbon electricity consumption suggests a positive direction towards embracing sustainable energy solutions. Every unit of increased low-carbon electricity generation replaces fossil-based electricity and represents a crucial step towards greener and cleaner energy for the future.
Suggestions
To continue expanding low-carbon electricity generation, Illinois could focus on further developing its already significant nuclear and wind power sectors. Learning from Denmark and Iowa, both of which generate a majority of their electricity from wind, Illinois can enhance its wind power installations. Additionally, looking towards France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy comprises more than two-thirds of electricity generation, Illinois can bolster its nuclear infrastructure. For solar power, Nevada and California offer valuable insights by tapping extensively into their sunny climates to produce significant solar electricity. These examples exhibit how Illinois can leverage its existing resources and favorable policies to accelerate its transition to a cleaner energy future.
History
Reflecting on the history of low-carbon electricity in Illinois, the state has seen a mix of progressions and setbacks. In 2024, Illinois experienced notable growth with an increase in wind and nuclear electricity generation, growing by 3.1 TWh and 1.7 TWh respectively. However, in 2025, Illinois faced an unfortunate decline in nuclear generation by 1.5 TWh even as wind power remained nearly steady with a slight increase of 0.1 TWh. This stagnation in clean energy growth is worrying, highlighting the urgent need for renewed efforts in expanding clean electricity sources. Despite limited additions or declines in hydroelectric and biofuel output in recent years, Illinois should prioritize the expansion of its nuclear and solar capacities, essential for meeting future energy demands and for reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
