Electricity in Indiana in 2024/2025
Between June 2024 and May 2025, electricity consumption in Indiana demonstrated a vital need for transformation towards cleaner energy sources. Fossil fuels remained the predominating source of electricity, accounting for slightly more than three-quarters of the total supply, with coal contributing approximately 42% and natural gas about 35%. However, low-carbon energy sources such as wind, solar, and net imports of energy were responsible for just over 14% of the electricity generated. Notably, wind energy took the lead within the low-carbon group, contributing around 10%, while solar energy offered close to 4% of the electricity supply. Although clean energy sources play a role, their share is well under a third, necessitating urgent action to increase their contribution as part of efforts to meet environmental and sustainability goals.
Is Electricity Growing in Indiana?
Despite an observable increase in low-carbon electricity generation, Indiana's overall electricity consumption has declined over the years, raising concerns for future sustainability. The most recent data from 2025 shows a consumption rate of 15645 kWh per person, marking a decrease from the previous highest in 2005 of 20764 kWh per person. This indicates a reduction of over 5000 kWh per person, painting a worrying picture for electricity demand. Yet, within this context, low-carbon electricity generation is on an upward trajectory, with a record of 2211 kWh per person, surpassing the previous year's record by 250 kWh. The growth in low-carbon electricity generation, even amid overall consumption decreases, is a positive sign pointing toward Indiana's potential to lean towards cleaner energy.
Suggestions
To successfully transition to a more sustainable energy future, Indiana can look to successful examples from other regions to enhance its low-carbon electricity generation. States such as Iowa, with wind energy contributing a substantial 62% to their electricity supply, show the potential of harnessing natural resources effectively. Illinois, with over half of its electricity generated from nuclear sources, demonstrates the significant role that nuclear energy can play in a low-carbon strategy. The combination of increased investment in solar and wind technologies, alongside developing nuclear capacities, can position Indiana as a leader in sustainable electricity generation. By embracing these clean energy pathways, Indiana could drastically reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and meet its electricity demands in an environmentally friendly and economically viable manner.
History
Looking at the history of low-carbon electricity in Indiana, wind energy has exhibited consistent growth since the late 2000s, albeit with fluctuations. From 2009 to 2025, wind electricity generation increased almost yearly, with dips occurring only in specific years like 2023. Solar power has also gained traction, with notable increases starting in 2021. By 2025, solar energy was demonstrating significant annual increases, emphasizing its rapidly growing importance within the state's energy mix. These trends represent a positive shift towards cleaner electricity sources, reflecting a growing commitment to sustainable development. The focus on expanding clean energy sources such as wind and solar promises a strategic avenue for Indiana to diversify and strengthen its low-carbon electricity portfolio further.