Over the last year—from September 2024 to August 2025—electricity consumption in Kentucky has shown a significant reliance on fossil fuels. Over four-fifths of electricity has been sourced from fossil energy, with coal being the dominant contributor at close to 59%, and gas contributing just over 23%. Additionally, net imports accounted for about 11% of the electricity consumed. Low-carbon electricity generation, which includes hydropower and solar, comprises roughly 7% of the total, with hydropower representing the majority of this clean energy at about 5%, and solar contributing a modest 1.4%. This indicates a pressing need to diversify energy sources towards more sustainable options to mitigate the impacts of climate change and air pollution associated with fossil fuels.

Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →

Is Electricity Growing in Kentucky?

When considering whether electricity consumption is growing in Kentucky, it's evident there has been a noticeable decline from previous levels. The latest data records electricity consumption at 17,305 kWh per person, which signifies a reduction of around 6,110 kWh per person compared to the all-time high in 2006. The generation of low-carbon electricity has also seen a slight reduction, with the latest figures showing 1,193 kWh per person, down by just 4 kWh from the peak level in 2020. This stagnation is concerning, especially in an era where electricity demand is poised to grow due to electrification and innovations like AI, requiring a strategic boost in clean energy production.

Suggestions

To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Kentucky can learn from regions and countries that have successfully utilized solar, wind, and nuclear energy. For instance, states like Iowa and South Dakota have achieved significant portions of their electricity from wind energy, around 60% and 57%, respectively. Emulating these approaches could make wind a viable option for Kentucky. Additionally, the success of nuclear power in states such as South Carolina and Illinois, which generate over half of their electricity from nuclear energy, underscores the potential of nuclear as a reliable and sustainable energy source. Solar energy, although small in Kentucky's current mix, holds promise if expanded, as seen by its significant contribution in regions like Nevada. By investing in and developing these clean energy technologies, Kentucky can enhance its energy independence and sustainability while reducing its carbon footprint.

History

The historical overview of low-carbon electricity in Kentucky shows a varied journey, particularly with hydroelectric power. In the mid-2000s, Kentucky saw notable fluctuations, with a decrease in hydroelectric generation observed in 2005 and subsequent years, except in 2009 when there was a resurgence of 1.4 TWh. By 2013, hydro generation rose by 0.9 TWh, indicating some recovery. The following years until 2025 reflected moderate changes, with minor increases and declines, suggesting a somewhat unstable output from hydropower. Interestingly, 2025 marks the emergence of solar energy with an increase of 0.8 TWh, highlighting a new chapter and opportunity for growth in Kentucky's low-carbon strategy. Promoting solar and enhancing hydro could provide a stable foundation for a cleaner energy future in the state.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade