In 2024, New Hampshire's electricity consumption reflects a compelling push towards low-carbon sources, with more than two-thirds of electricity being generated from clean technologies. Notably, nuclear energy dominates this category, contributing just over half of the total electricity. In addition to nuclear, other forms of low-carbon electricity, such as hydropower, biofuels, and a modest share from wind, bolster this sustainable picture. Fossil fuels continue to play a role, however, supplying about a quarter of the electricity, primarily through gas and a minute portion from coal, showing a significant need for further transition to cleaner sources to address climate change and air pollution.
Is Electricity Growing in New Hampshire?
Electricity consumption in New Hampshire, at 12,277 kWh/person, has seen a considerable decline from its peak in 2005, which was marked at 18,845 kWh/person. This reduction of 6,568 kWh/person indicates a substantial shift that could be attributed to improvements in efficiency or changes in industrial consumption patterns. Low-carbon electricity generation, currently at 8,900 kWh/person, is also less than its previous record in 2013 with a gap of 1,685 kWh/person. This stagnation signals a critical need for revitalizing New Hampshire's commitment to expanding its sustainable energy base, particularly through nuclear power, to meet future demands and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Suggestions
For New Hampshire to bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, the state should consider expanding its existing nuclear infrastructure, which already contributes significantly to the electricity mix. Additionally, it can look towards successful regions utilizing solar and wind energy as models. France, for instance, leads in nuclear electricity generation, while regions like Denmark and Iowa excel in utilizing wind with 52% and 63% of their electricity coming from wind energy, respectively. This diversifying approach, combining increased nuclear capacity with initiatives in solar and wind—much like Nevada and Lebanon have demonstrated in solar power—could pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient electricity sector in New Hampshire.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in New Hampshire has seen periods of growth and decline, particularly with nuclear energy. After declining slightly in 2005, nuclear power witnessed a remarkable increase in 2007 but encountered setbacks in the following years with notable reductions in 2008, 2011, and 2014. However, the early 2010s also saw occasional recoveries, such as in 2010 and 2013, keeping nuclear as a pivotal component of the state’s energy strategy. The recent fluctuations and declines, especially in 2023, emphasize the urgency to stabilize and invest in nuclear energy to ensure a reliable and greener electricity future for New Hampshire.