Over the past twelve months, from June 2024 to May 2025, New Hampshire's electricity consumption has predominantly been driven by low-carbon sources, accounting for almost 71% of the total. Notably, having more than half of its electricity from nuclear energy positions New Hampshire as a leader in clean energy usage in the region. Hydropower and biofuels contribute a modest share of electricity at about 9% and close to 5% respectively, while wind power adds nearly 3% to the clean energy mix. In stark contrast, fossil energy sources make up a smaller but still significant portion, at roughly 28%. The majority of this fossil fuel share is from gas, which constitutes about a quarter of the overall electricity consumption, with coal contributing a minor fraction at under 2%. The state’s commitment to clean energy is evident but further reducing reliance on fossil fuels is essential.
Is Electricity Growing in New Hampshire?
In terms of electricity growth, New Hampshire's recent consumption level stands at 12,398 kWh/person in 2025, which shows a notable decrease from its peak of 18,845 kWh/person in 2005 by about 6,447 kWh/person. This trend indicates a stagnation rather than growth, contrary to the desired progress in the electrification era driven by technological advancements and AI. Furthermore, low-carbon electricity generation recorded at 8,800 kWh/person in 2025 has decreased from the previous high of 10,585 kWh/person in 2013, reflecting a drop of 1,785 kWh/person. Enhancing electricity growth by expanding green electricity production is imperative to sustain future energy demands and lower carbon footprints.
Suggestions
To support the growth of low-carbon electricity, New Hampshire should consider expanding its nuclear capacity, which is already a substantial contributor to the state’s electricity mix. Learning from successful regions such as France and Sweden, where nuclear generation accounts for a significant share of electricity, New Hampshire could further enhance its nuclear capabilities. Additionally, harnessing solar energy could draw inspiration from sunny states like Nevada and California, which effectively leverage solar power. Furthermore, the success of wind energy in states like Iowa and South Dakota provides a model for diversifying and strengthening New Hampshire’s clean energy infrastructure. A strategic focus on expanding both nuclear and solar capacities can significantly enhance the state's clean electricity generation, ensuring a robust, sustainable energy future.
History
Looking back at the history of low-carbon electricity in New Hampshire, the early 2000s saw fluctuations in nuclear energy generation, with noticeable drops in 2005 and 2008 and again from 2011 onwards. High points were achieved in 2007, 2010, and notably in 2013, which marked substantial upswings in generation. The recent decade has experienced several setbacks, including declines in 2011, 2014, 2015, 2017, and once more in 2023, a trend that is concerning given the necessity for reliability and expansion in clean energy. Such inconsistencies underscore the importance of maintaining and increasing nuclear output alongside diversifying into other low-carbon avenues like solar to meet future challenges sustainably. The potential growth through steady nuclear investments and the adoption of solar initiatives present an opportunity to construct a dependable and green electricity landscape.