In 2025, the electricity consumption in Massachusetts showcases a strong reliance on net imports, constituting more than half of the total electricity supply. Fossil fuels, mainly gas, contribute nearly 30% of electricity generation. In contrast, low-carbon energy sources, including solar and biofuels, contribute over 13% of the electricity, with solar power alone (both behind-the-meter and utility-scale) contributing approximately 11%. Given the pressing need to transition to cleaner energy sources, the relatively low share of low-carbon electricity generation highlights an area for potential growth and improvement in Massachusetts's energy landscape.

Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →

Is Electricity Growing in Massachusetts?

Electricity consumption in Massachusetts is experiencing growth. In 2025, total electricity consumption reached 8511 kWh per person, surpassing the previous high recorded in 2023, reflecting an increase of 447 kWh per person. Low-carbon electricity generation also saw a positive trend, rising to 1144 kWh per person from the earlier record of 1076 kWh per person, marking an increase of 67 kWh per person. This upward trajectory in both overall and low-carbon electricity usage is heartening, as it aligns with the broader goals of increasing clean energy reliance to counteract the negative impacts of fossil fuels on climate change and air quality.

Suggestions

For Massachusetts to elevate its low-carbon electricity production, focusing on expanding existing solar infrastructure could be highly beneficial. Learning from successful regions, such as North Macedonia and Nevada, where solar energy contributes significantly to their respective energy matrices (49% and 34%), Massachusetts could replicate similar advancements by investing in solar technology. Additionally, states like New Hampshire and neighboring Connecticut present nuclear as a robust clean energy option, with nuclear electricity constituting about 55% and 37% respectively. Taken together, these strategies could significantly bolster Massachusetts's clean energy portfolio, reducing its dependence on fossil fuels and furthering the transition to a sustainable and resilient energy system.

History

Looking back at the history of low-carbon electricity in Massachusetts, the past few years have seen a concerning stagnation in areas like wind energy, remaining unchanged from 2024 to 2025. This stagnation reflects missed opportunities for growth in low-carbon sectors. Similarly, hydroelectricity showed a decline in 2024, with no rebound or improvement in 2025, adding to the need for a critical reevaluation of strategic energy investments. While biofuels and other clean energy sources have maintained small but stable outputs, the potential for a large-scale clean energy revolution rests in a committed pursuit of nuclear and solar projects that have shown significant promise globally and can drive Massachusetts towards a future of sustainable energy self-sufficiency.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade