Over the course of the last year, from July 2025 through June 2026, electricity consumption in New York has been distributed between low-carbon and fossil energy sources in a nearly balanced manner. Low-carbon energy, comprising nuclear, hydropower, solar, and wind, accounts for more than half of the energy mix, standing at roughly 44%. Fossil energy, which includes natural gas and oil, represents close to 41% of the total, with gas being the dominant fossil source at around 40%. Notably, nuclear energy contributes almost 17% of total production, hydropower adds 15%, while solar and wind collectively make up just over 10%. This diverse mix, with low-carbon sources contributing a significant share, indicates a movement toward cleaner electricity generation in New York.

Is Electricity Growing in New York?

Electricity consumption in New York is witnessing modest growth, with the most recent figures indicating an average consumption of 8,270 kWh per person. This is an increase from the previous record set in 2025, marking a rise of 22 kWh per person. However, despite the overall increase in electricity consumption, low-carbon electricity generation per person has seen a slight decrease, with the latest figures falling short by 42 kWh compared to the previous record. The combination of increasing demand but shrinking low-carbon generation is concerning and underscores the importance of expanding clean energy to meet future needs effectively.

Suggestions

To boost its low-carbon electricity generation, New York should consider expanding its existing nuclear facilities, as nuclear power already contributes a substantial portion to the state's electricity mix. By looking to other successful regions with similar environmental and policy initiatives, New York can gather insights into clean energy expansion. For instance, France, where nuclear energy makes up a dominant 67% of electricity, provides a blueprint for how robust nuclear programs can drive significant low-carbon output. Furthermore, California's success with solar energy at 31% can offer valuable lessons in maximizing solar potential. By adopting strategies from these regions, New York can enhance its clean energy production and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, thus advancing both environmental and economic objectives.

History

Throughout history, New York's commitment to low-carbon electricity generation has seen various shifts, especially when grouped by significant events. In 2024, the state made gains in wind energy with a production increase of 1.2 TWh; however, it experienced small declines in nuclear and hydroelectric output at the same time. The year 2025 brought recovery with nuclear contribution rising by 1.3 TWh, though hydroelectric power faced a noticeable decline of 2.2 TWh, which is concerning. Unfortunately, these gains did not sustain; 2026 experienced decreases across nuclear, hydroelectric, and wind energies. The ongoing challenge of ensuring consistently increasing low-carbon electricity generation underscores the critical need for investment and policy measures to support energy diversification. To truly pave the path forward in sustainable energy, New York should continue to prioritize expanding its nuclear and solar capabilities to secure a stable and growing clean energy future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Jul 2025 – Jun 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.