As of 2025, Maryland's electricity consumption is characterized by a diverse energy mix. Net imports constitute a significant portion, accounting for more than 40% of the state's electricity use. Low-carbon energy sources make up almost a third of the electricity mix, with nuclear energy as a major contributor at just over 22%. Solar power, combined with behind-the-meter and utility-scale installations, adds up to approximately 4.5% of the total electricity generation. Fossil fuels account for nearly 28% of the energy consumed, with natural gas being the largest contributor within this category. Coal has a minor role, providing barely more than 3%. Maryland's current energy profile reflects a substantial dependency on imports but showcases promising momentum toward increased clean energy generation.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Maryland?
Electricity consumption in Maryland is experiencing encouraging growth. The latest data from 2025 indicates a total electricity usage of 10,665 kWh per person, surpassing the previous high in 2024 by 455 kWh per person. Within that, low-carbon electricity also reached a new peak at 3,248 kWh per person, edging out the former record from 2023 by 38 kWh. This growth in both overall and clean electricity consumption is a positive indicator of Maryland's trajectory toward electrification and sustainability. However, maintaining this momentum is vital in order to accommodate increasing electricity demands driven by advances in technology and the electrification of other sectors.
Suggestions
To further enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Maryland has a bright future in expanding its nuclear capacity given the existing significant contributions from this resource. By examining other successful regions, lessons can be learned to support solar and wind energy growth. New Hampshire and South Carolina are exemplary states where nuclear accounts for more than half of their electricity generation. In terms of solar, the experiences of Nevada and California, where solar power contributes more than 30%, provide valuable insights for Maryland. Meanwhile, wind success stories from Iowa and Kansas, where wind energy penetration is remarkably high, can inspire strategies for potential wind energy expansion in Maryland. Strengthening the existing nuclear infrastructure and exploring solar and wind opportunities can propel Maryland toward a cleaner energy future.
History
The historical context of low-carbon electricity in Maryland illustrates shifts in energy dynamics over recent years. The early 2020s saw fluctuations in nuclear generation, notably a slight decline of 0.3 TWh in 2024, followed by a modest recovery of 0.1 TWh in 2025. Wind power experienced minor yet steady gains in these years, reflecting a gradual commitment to diversifying low-carbon energy sources. Hydropower and biofuels have shown minimal changes during this period, emphasizing the potential for amplification of nuclear and solar investments to meet current and future demands. Ensuring consistent growth in these cornerstone technologies is crucial for securing a sustainable and resilient electricity landscape for Maryland.
