In the past year, from September 2024 to August 2025, New Jersey's electricity consumption demonstrated a diverse mix of energy sources with significant reliance on both fossil fuels and low-carbon options. Low-carbon sources collectively contributed more than 40% of electricity, highlighting New Jersey's commitment to clean energy. Of this, nuclear energy made up a considerable portion, contributing slightly over 33%. Solar energy, although less dominant, accounted for close to 7% of electricity, with behind-the-meter installations (like rooftop solar) and utility-scale solar systems providing similar shares. Fossil fuels, primarily gas, also represented a substantial part of electricity generation at approximately 35%, indicating a still significant reliance on non-green sources. Moreover, the state relied on net imports for about 24% of its total electrical consumption, suggesting a need for more localized energy generation to enhance energy security and sustainability.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in New Jersey?
Electricity consumption trends in New Jersey indicate an overall reduction compared to its peak in 2005, suggesting a worrying decline in growth. The latest data revealed that electricity usage was about 8,713 kWh per person, down from a peak of 10,550 kWh per person in 2005, marking a drop of 1,837 kWh per person. Similarly, consumption of low-carbon electricity has decreased since its peak in 2017, with the latest figures at 3,519 kWh per person, a reduction of 691 kWh per person. This decline in both total and clean electricity use is concerning as it reflects a slowdown in sustainable energy adoption and indicates that New Jersey might be lagging in developing efficient energy strategies to meet modern demands.
Suggestions
To ramp up low-carbon electricity generation, New Jersey could expand and optimize its existing nuclear facilities, as nuclear energy already plays a pivotal role in the state’s clean energy portfolio. By learning from regions where clean energy thrives, such as France's extensive use of nuclear energy, New Jersey could significantly increase its nuclear output to ensure consistent and reliable low-carbon electricity generation. Solar energy offers another promising avenue, and New Jersey could take cues from states like Nevada and California which harness solar power extensively, with solar accounting for 33% and 29% of their electricity, respectively. Encouraging policies that support the development of large-scale solar installations and incentivize residential solar adoption could bolster New Jersey's low-carbon footprint substantially.
History
Historically, New Jersey's nuclear energy landscape has experienced fluctuations, with peaks and troughs marking the last two decades of the 20th century and beyond. During the initial phase of the 21st century, particularly from 2005 to 2011, there were incremental increases in nuclear generation, with notable rises in 2005 and 2009. Unfortunately, starting from 2010, there were several instances of significant declines, notably in 2014, 2016, and 2019. While these fluctuations in nuclear output were challenging, New Jersey managed temporary growth recoveries post-2009 through adjustments and enhancements. Moving forward, strategically investing in nuclear along with solar energy can spur a more robust growth trajectory in low-carbon electricity, given the compelling record of renewable expansion in previous years.
