In Missouri for the year 2025, electricity consumption is heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with just over 60% coming from this source. Coal constitutes the majority of this, providing more than half of the electricity in the state. Close to a third of the state's electricity is obtained from low-carbon sources, with nuclear energy accounting for roughly 8% and wind energy about 7%. Solar energy, though growing, remains modest at below 3%, and hydropower is even less significant at just over 1%. The state also relies on net electricity imports for nearly 18% of its consumption. These figures indicate that while there is some progress towards embracing cleaner technologies, the substantial dependence on fossil fuels continues to be a concern.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Missouri?
The trend in electricity consumption in Missouri demonstrates a marked growth, with the latest records showing 14,151 kWh per person, an increase of 867 kWh compared to the previous peak in 2024. However, clean energy, particularly from low-carbon sources, saw a dip in its otherwise positive trajectory. The latest figures for low-carbon electricity consumption per capita are at 2,755 kWh, which represents a decline of 374 kWh from numbers reached in 2024. This paradox highlights a crucial challenge for Missouri: while overall electricity use is expanding, clean energy adoption isn't advancing at the same pace. Ensuring growth in sustainable energy remains a primary focus to curb further environmental impact from fossil fuels.
Suggestions
To increase its share of low-carbon electricity, Missouri could take inspiration from regions like Iowa and South Dakota, where wind energy contributes significantly to the electricity supply, making up almost 60% in each of those states. Embracing solar and nuclear energy is equally crucial, with states like Illinois demonstrating how nuclear energy can play a vital role, supplying half of their electricity. Additionally, Denmark's effective utilization of wind energy can guide Missouri in maximizing its natural resources for sustainable power generation. These regions showcase how diverse low-carbon portfolios enable a transition away from fossil fuels, making them excellent benchmarks for Missouri's clean energy ambitions.
History
Reflecting on the history of low-carbon electricity in Missouri from recent years, 2024 saw increases in nuclear and hydropower production. Unfortunately, in 2025, there was a troubling decline in both nuclear and wind electricity generation. The reduction in nuclear energy marks a significant loss, highlighting the need for stronger commitment to stable and reliable clean energy sources. On the positive side, other low-carbon types such as biofuels have seen no change, though they remain a minor contributor compared to the potential that solar and nuclear hold. It's imperative that Missouri reverses any setbacks in nuclear while accelerating solar energy deployment, in line with the successful examples from similar regions. This commitment will better position the state for a sustainable and resilient energy future.
