Over the past year, from September 2024 to August 2025, New Hampshire's electricity consumption has prominently featured low-carbon sources, which make up nearly 70% of the state's electricity generation. Nuclear power is the backbone, contributing more than half of the electricity, specifically about 54%. Natural sources like hydropower, biofuels, wind, and solar aggrandize the low-carbon pool, with hydropower at almost 7%, biofuels around 4%, and combined wind and solar nearing 5%. Fossil energy sources, primarily gas, still account for nearly 30% of electricity consumption, with gas alone constituting more than a quarter. Coal's share stands at close to none, about 2%, underscoring a shift towards cleaner forms of electricity generation in the region.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in New Hampshire?
The trajectory of electricity consumption in New Hampshire is trending downward compared to its historical records. The latest per capita consumption of 12,661 kWh indicates a decrease of 6,184 kWh since the high in 2005. Similarly, the decline in low-carbon electricity generation is concerning, dropping by 1,757 kWh from its peak in 2013, when low-carbon sources were utilized even more robustly per person. This stagnation hints at missed opportunities for renewable expansion, at a time where sustainable growth is pivotal in combating the environmental effects of fossil fuel reliance.
Suggestions
New Hampshire, to augment its low-carbon electricity generation, should expand its reliance on nuclear energy, given its already significant contribution. Learning from regions like France and Slovakia, where nuclear accounts for over two-thirds of electricity generation, could provide a blueprint for advancement. Likewise, neighboring states such as Maine, which significantly harnesses wind energy, can instill valuable insights. Encouragingly, incorporating solar solutions, as demonstrated by California and Nevada—both with commendable solar generation ratios—could complement nuclear growth, creating a well-rounded clean electricity strategy. Embracing and scaling these energies can position New Hampshire as a leader in sustainable electricity and make a hefty contribution towards reducing fossil fuel dependency.
History
Historically, New Hampshire has experienced fluctuating yet significant changes in low-carbon electricity generation, particularly with nuclear power. In the late 2000s, the state saw considerable gains and losses, such as a notable 2.1 TWh increase in 2010 but faced strong declines the following year with a steep reduction of 2.5 TWh. The 2010s continued this variability with sporadic growth and setbacks. The year 2013 marked the largest nuclear expansion, with a substantial surge of 2.7 TWh, offering a brief era of optimism. However, inconsistent output defined much of the proceeding decade, with several declines, including reductions as recent as 2023. A consistent commitment to energizing its nuclear capabilities would position New Hampshire as a steadfast participant in the green energy future.
