In the recent period spanning from April 2025 to March 2026, electricity consumption in Massachusetts highlights the continuing reliance on both imports and fossil fuels, along with a commitment to low-carbon energy sources. Net imports constitute more than half of the electricity supply at 55%, underscoring dependence on external sources. Fossil-based generation, inclusive of gas and oil, remains substantial with nearly 30%, primarily from natural gas. Low-carbon electricity generation together makes up around 14%, with notable contributions from solar power at 11%, which is split into back-the-meter (BTM) and utility-scale solar. Biofuels, while considered low-carbon, contribute a marginal 1.4%. Although Massachusetts is making some strides towards a cleaner grid, the reliance on imports and fossil fuels persists as a critical area for improvement.

Is Electricity Growing in Massachusetts?

When analyzing electricity consumption trends, Massachusetts is experiencing growth in overall usage per capita, moving from 8511 kWh in 2025 to 8606 kWh in 2026, marking an increase of 95 kWh/person. This upward trend is also observed in low-carbon electricity generation, which has risen to 1167 kWh/person, achieving an increase of 23 kWh/person from the previous year. These figures indicate that both total and low-carbon electricity consumption are on the rise, signifying a gradual transition toward clean energy sources. The challenges ahead will be in continuing to amplify this trend and initiating more rapid acceleration to address energy demands and environmental concerns simultaneously.

Suggestions

To enhance low-carbon electricity generation further, Massachusetts should consider expanding its solar energy infrastructure, given its significant existing contribution. The state could also look towards the successes of other regions for inspiration. For instance, California and Nevada demonstrate the potential of solar energy with 31% and 34% of their electricity generated from solar, respectively. Moreover, nearby New Hampshire generates 54% of its electricity through nuclear power, indicating a viable path for Massachusetts to follow. Emulating these examples would not only reduce reliance on fossil fuels but would also position Massachusetts as a leader in sustainable energy generation within the United States.

History

The historical data on low-carbon electricity generation in Massachusetts reveals subtle shifts over recent years. From the mid-2020s, biofuels experienced a slight decrease in their contribution, dropping by 0.1 TWh in 2025, while wind power remained stable until it slightly increased in 2026. Hydro power saw a reduction in 2024 but stabilized in subsequent years, maintaining a consistent output. Despite these fluctuations, the overarching pattern is one of minimal growth, prompting a need for more aggressive measures in expanding infrastructure, such as solar and nuclear, to usher in broader advances in green energy production. The past trajectory must give way to a more dynamic approach to ensure robust electricity supply that effectively reduces the carbon footprint in Massachusetts.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Apr 2025 – Mar 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.