Electricity in Massachusetts in 2024/2025
Between June 2024 and May 2025, Massachusetts saw a varied landscape in electricity consumption. During this period, the state relied on net imports for a predominant 61% of its electricity needs, showcasing a significant dependency on external resources. Electricity generated from fossil fuels accounted for around 29%, with gas shares contributing nearly all of that. Clean energy sources provided a relatively small portion, with low-carbon generation making up almost 8% overall. Within this category, solar was the main contributor, providing approximately 4%, while biofuels, hydropower, and other clean sources combined for the remainder. This indicates a strong reliance on fossil fuels and imports, despite some contributions from cleaner energy sources.
Is Electricity Growing in Massachusetts?
Electricity consumption in Massachusetts has seen a substantial decline compared to past records. In 2025, the consumption per person was 7,340 kWh, which represents a decrease of over 2,000 kWh compared to the peak of 9,408 kWh in 2005. This reduction in electricity use aligns with a significant drop in the generation of clean energy per person; the current value is 578 kWh while it was 1,255 kWh back in 2006. These figures show that both overall and clean electricity consumption have decreased, reflecting a setback in Massachusetts's efforts towards energy sustainability. This trend is concerning given the increasing need for clean electricity to support a transition to low-carbon economies and the growing electricity demand propelled by technological advancements.
Suggestions
Massachusetts can enhance its clean electricity generation by looking to successful regions where nuclear and solar play major roles. States like New Hampshire have demonstrated the significant role of nuclear power, with nuclear making up 55% of its electricity generation. This presents a blueprint for Massachusetts to consider boosting its own nuclear capacity. Meanwhile, solar power offers another avenue for growth; regions like Nevada have seen solar energy supplying 29% of electricity, indicating potential for Massachusetts to increase its solar output. Additionally, Denmark's reliance on wind power, providing 57% of its electricity, sets an example of how diversifying clean energy sources can lead to increased generation and reduced dependency on fossil fuels. By strategically expanding these clean energy sources, Massachusetts can work towards a more sustainable electricity future.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Massachusetts over the years reveals fluctuating changes, especially in nuclear energy generation. At the beginning of this millennium, nuclear energy experienced several increases, such as in 2006 and 2008 when it notably contributed to electricity generation. However, these gains were often offset by declines like those seen in 2007 and the significant decrease in 2013 when nuclear power dwindled sharply. Recent years have seen a concerning trend of nuclear decommissioning or reduced output, as evidenced by the dip in generation in 2019. Meanwhile, hydropower and solar have seen limited growth, with occasional increases shown in 2006 and 2017, and a slight uptick in solar in 2022. This pattern presents challenges but also highlights clear opportunities for Massachusetts to pivot and reinvest in sustainable energy sources such as nuclear and solar to secure a robust, clean energy future.