In Maryland, electricity consumption over the last twelve months, from September 2024 to August 2025, has shown a diverse energy mix. Net imports accounted for more than 40% of electricity, reflecting a significant reliance on external sources. Low-carbon sources, which are essential in reducing carbon footprints, contributed almost a third of the energy. Notably, nuclear power played a substantial role, making up about 22% of the total electricity, while solar combined with behind-the-meter and utility contributions added up to over 4%. Meanwhile, fossil energy sources provided a little over a quarter of the electricity, with gas being the predominant source at nearly 23%, and coal contributing just under 4%. This energy distribution underscores the potential for Maryland to enhance its clean energy portfolio, particularly focusing on increasing local low-carbon generation capacity.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Maryland?
Currently, it appears that electricity consumption in Maryland is not growing. The latest total electricity consumption stands at approximately 10,472 kWh per person, a decrease of over 3,000 kWh compared to the historic record set in 2005, which was 13,625 kWh per person. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation has also seen a slight decline, with recent numbers at 3,214 kWh per person, down from the previous high of 3,336 kWh per person recorded in 2018. This stagnation in both overall and low-carbon electricity consumption is concerning, particularly as the state seeks to meet increasing demands driven by electrification and advancements in technology.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation in Maryland, expanding nuclear energy is a strategic option, given its large contribution to the current energy mix. Maryland can look towards regions with successful low-carbon deployment for inspiration. France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy generates approximately 70% and 66% of electricity, respectively, show the potential of investing heavily in nuclear infrastructure. Furthermore, states like California and Nevada, which have significantly integrated solar energy into their grids with contributions of 29% and 33% respectively, serve as models for boosting solar power generation. By harnessing lessons from these regions, Maryland can effectively bolster its clean energy capacity, further shifting away from fossil fuel dependency and enhancing grid sustainability.
History
Over the decades, the history of low-carbon electricity generation in Maryland has witnessed fluctuations, particularly with regards to nuclear and hydropower. The late 2000s saw slight declines in nuclear contributions, with notable decreases in 2006 and 2010. However, there were periods of recovery as seen in 2007 and 2011. On the hydropower front, the early 2000s experienced declines, but the years 2011 and 2018 marked some positive rebounds. Unfortunately, such inconsistent growth in low-carbon sources indicates the need for a more robust and strategic approach to energy planning. These historical lessons present Maryland with the opportunity to stabilize and amplify its clean energy repertoire, facilitating a more reliable electricity supply in the coming years.
