In Kentucky, electricity consumption is heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with more than four-fifths of the energy mix being from such sources. Coal remains the dominant player, contributing nearly three-fifths of this mix, while gas delivers almost a quarter. Low-carbon electricity accounts for only a small fraction, with hydro and solar being the primary sources. Solar energy is produced both at the utility scale and on a smaller scale, but altogether constitutes just over 2% of the total. Net imports satisfy a little over a tenth of Kentucky’s needs, highlighting the importance of external electricity sources to the state.

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

Is Electricity Growing in Kentucky?

Electricity consumption in Kentucky is on the rise, as evidenced by a new record high of 18,133 kWh per person in 2025, an increase of 947 kWh from the previous year. This growth is a positive indicator of a thriving economy and an increasing population relying on electricity. On the clean energy front, low-carbon electricity generation per person also increased to 1,317 kWh, an improvement of 239 kWh over the previous year. While this increase in low-carbon contribution is encouraging, there remains significant room for Kentucky to grow its share of sustainable electricity to reduce the carbon footprint and ensure a greener future.

Suggestions

To bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, Kentucky should consider expanding its solar and nuclear capacities by taking cues from leading regions. Solar energy dynamism can be inspired by states like Nevada and California, where the solar generation is at 34% and 31%, respectively. Nuclear energy offers a stable and reliable option for Kentucky, as seen in states like South Carolina and Illinois, where over half of their electricity comes from nuclear sources. Emulating this model by investing in nuclear power plants could provide significant long-term benefits, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and enhancing energy security while contributing to climate change mitigation targets.

History

Looking back at Kentucky’s low-carbon electricity journey, the past couple of years have seen only minor fluctuations in hydro and biofuels. In 2024, hydro generation saw a small uptick, with a 0.2 TWh increase, while biofuels held steady. The following year, hydro saw a slight decline of the same amount, maintaining the status quo in biofuels generation. This stability in low-carbon energy sources suggests an opportunity for Kentucky to break through the current stagnation by embracing ambitious clean energy policies and initiatives that increase capacity and efficiency in solar and nuclear power generation. The time for action is now—expanding low-carbon resources will yield a robust and clean energy future for Kentucky.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade