Over the twelve-month period from June 2024 to May 2025, the state of Missouri has heavily relied on fossil fuels for its electricity consumption, with coal and gas combined accounting for more than three-fifths of the total electricity generation. Notably, coal stands out as the predominant source, contributing a bit more than half. Clean energy sources are responsible for just over one-fifth of this energy, primarily driven by nuclear power, which contributes a bit more than half of the low-carbon generation, and supplemented by wind power at just under one-tenth. Moreover, Missouri imports a significant portion of its electricity, with net imports making up about 15% of the total. The current energy mix highlights a reliance on fossil fuels, pointing to the need for an expansion of low-carbon electricity to counteract the environmental impacts of carbon-induced climate change.
Is Electricity Growing in Missouri?
Currently, Missouri's electricity consumption has seen a noticeable decline compared to its peak in 2011, when it was at 15,783 kWh per person. In 2025, the per capita consumption decreased by more than 2,400 kWh, down to 13,334 kWh per person, indicating a concerning stagnation. Similarly, the generation of low-carbon electricity has not only declined compared to last year, but it has also failed to surpass earlier records, now at 2,700 kWh per person, a drop of 287 kWh compared to 2024's record. This reduction in green energy generation is disappointing, with a downward trend in both per capita consumption and clean energy output, underscoring the urgency for Missouri to intensify efforts in reversing this decline and fulfilling future clean electricity goals.
Suggestions
To boost its low-carbon electricity generation, Missouri could benefit from expanding its nuclear capabilities—a resource it already effectively utilizes. Looking at successful regions, France demonstrates a remarkable example by generating nearly 70% of its electricity from nuclear energy. Similarly, Illinois generates over half of its electricity from nuclear, providing a closer state-level comparison. Expanding nuclear power could significantly enhance Missouri's green energy profile. Additionally, following the model of states like Iowa, where wind accounts for over 60% of electricity generation, Missouri can invest more in wind infrastructure to maximize its potential. Indeed, learning from regions that excel in solar energy, like Chile and Lebanon with their significant solar share, Missouri can also explore greater solar deployment, contributing to a more diversified and sustainable energy mix.
History
Missouri's journey through low-carbon electricity has been marked by fluctuations, especially in nuclear energy generation. In the mid-2000s, a surge in nuclear contributions was evident in 2006, with a significant increase of 2.1 TWh. However, the subsequent years were marred by a decline, notably a drop of 1.3 TWh in 2010 and further in 2013 with a sharp fall of 2.4 TWh. Improvements were seen sporadically, like in 2018 when nuclear power generation increased by 2.4 TWh, and in 2022, where it rose by a notable 4.6 TWh. Unfortunately, 2025 saw another downturn with a reduction of 1.7 TWh. Despite these setbacks, the potential for growth remains, especially with consistent rises in wind generation, like in 2021 with an addition of 3.2 TWh, signaling that the journey toward a robust clean energy future is well within Missouri’s reach if decisive and strategic actions are undertaken.