Over the 12-month period from April 2025 to March 2026, electricity consumption in Kansas showcased a significant reliance on low-carbon energy sources, with more than half of the electricity generated coming from clean energy, accounting for almost 64%. Wind energy stood out as the most significant contributor in the low-carbon category, making up nearly half of the state's overall electricity generation at 48%. Nuclear energy also played a vital role, providing almost 15% of the total electricity. In stark contrast, fossil fuels accounted for 36% of the electricity supply. Coal, the largest fossil fuel source, contributed almost a third of the generation at 30%, while gas represented a smaller portion at about 6%. Solar energy, though still a minor player, contributed around 1%, indicating potential for growth.

Is Electricity Growing in Kansas?

Electricity consumption in Kansas is experiencing gradual growth. The latest figures in 2026 show electricity use reaching around 21,377 kWh per person, slightly surpassing the previous record set in 2025 by 108 kWh. This growth is accompanied by an encouraging rise in low-carbon electricity generation, which hit 13,652 kWh per person, an increase of 300 kWh from the previous year. While this trend suggests that consumption is rising, it is essential to accelerate this growth of clean electricity to support the state's needs for sustainable and environmentally friendly energy.

Suggestions

To further bolster low-carbon electricity generation in Kansas, expanding both nuclear and wind energy presents a promising path forward, as these are already well-established and significant contributors in the state. Learning from regions with high percentages of low-carbon energy, like France and Illinois, which heavily rely on nuclear, can offer valuable insights. Supplementing this with lessons from states like California, known for substantial solar energy usage, can aid Kansas in diversifying its low-carbon energy portfolio. This dual approach of enhancing nuclear infrastructure alongside scaling up solar energy can help Kansas reach higher levels of clean electricity generation, enhancing its sustainable energy future while mitigating the impacts of climate change and air pollution associated with fossil fuels.

History

In the recent history of Kansas's electricity landscape, the 2024 wind energy increase of 2.5 TWh contrasted sharply with a decline in nuclear of 1.1 TWh. The following year, wind energy saw a minor reduction of 0.2 TWh, but nuclear slightly rebounded with an increase of 0.1 TWh, indicating a more stable output. In 2026, wind energy grew again by 0.8 TWh, maintaining its upward momentum, while nuclear remained steady. This capacity for wind to rise and the resilience of nuclear power underscore the potential for significant clean electricity production. Sustaining these positive trends and expanding both wind and nuclear capacity are crucial steps for Kansas to advance its low-carbon electricity generation and lead the way toward a cleaner, more sustainable 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.