In Louisiana over the past year, running from September 2024 through August 2025, fossil fuels have dominated electricity consumption, making up more than three-fourths of the supply—over two-thirds of that derived specifically from natural gas. Low-carbon energy sources contribute around one-fifth of the state's electricity, with nuclear taking the lion's share of this clean energy at over 14%. Solar, although still just a small fraction of the state's electricity generation at a bit over 2%, represents a vibrant opportunity for scaling up clean electricity. Net imports account for just over 5% of the consumption, while coal is at an all-time low, contributing to only a small fraction of fossil-generated electricity. The data emphasizes that there is ample room for growth in low-carbon technologies in this southern state, particularly leveraging and expanding on successful nuclear and solar strategies.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Louisiana?
Assessing the trend in electricity consumption, Louisiana appears to be slightly stagnant, especially considering a minor decrease in consumption from the record high observed a decade ago in 2015. In 2025, electricity consumption was recorded at 23,095 kWh per person, just slightly below the 2015 record. The situation is similar for low-carbon electricity generation, which also recorded a decline from its 2010 levels. The current low-carbon electricity generation stands at 4,381 kWh per person, more than 500 kWh less than in 2010. This decline indicates a troubling trend in the state's commitment to low-carbon solutions, urgently needing renewed focus and investment.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Louisiana should consider expanding its robust nuclear infrastructure, as inspired by successful regions like France and Slovakia where nuclear power contributes to more than two-thirds of electricity generation. In addition, the state could take cues from New Mexico and other states where solar energy makes up a significant share of the electricity mix, breathing fresh life into the local solar industry, amplifying its positive impact on the electricity grid. Learning from these regions, Louisiana has the potential to significantly enhance its clean energy profile, addressing climate change and air pollution while ensuring sustainable electricity supply for its residents.
History
Looking back at the history of low-carbon electricity in Louisiana, fluctuations in nuclear energy generation have characterized the past few decades. In the early 2000s, nuclear energy saw both increases and decreases, and since 2005, there have been notable highs and lows. For instance, substantial declines in nuclear power happened in 2005, 2011, and 2019, which may have hampered consistent growth in clean energy generation. Despite recent challenges, Louisiana has shown potential for recovery, particularly with positive increments in nuclear output in 2020 and 2024. Meanwhile, solar power is gradually making its mark, with noticeable increases in the past year, setting a promising trajectory for future growth in low-carbon electricity. Encouragingly, 2025 has shown slight increases in both nuclear and solar production, suggesting a favorable direction for sustainable energy in the region.
