In North Carolina, electricity consumption in 2025 is characterized by a significant reliance on both fossil fuels and low-carbon energy sources. Fossil fuels, including coal and gas, contribute to almost half of the state's electricity, with gas being the largest individual source at approximately 35%. Coal trails behind with about 12%. Low-carbon energy makes up just over 40%, showcasing North Carolina’s commitment to clean energy. More than a quarter of the state's electricity is generated from nuclear power, highlighting its substantial role in the energy mix. Solar energy also plays a significant role at close to 9%, reflecting considerable investment in this clean energy source. Hydropower contributes a smaller, yet viable portion with around 3%. Additionally, the state imports nearly 12% of its electricity, indicating additional avenues for domestic clean energy opportunities.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in North Carolina?
Electricity consumption in North Carolina has been on an upward trajectory, as evidenced by the increase in per capita electricity usage from 2024 to 2025. The state reached a new record high of 13,859 kWh per person, up by 573 kWh from the previous year. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation has seen growth, albeit more modest, increasing by 21 kWh per person to reach 5,717 kWh per person. This growth is promising and highlights the crucial role that clean energy plays in meeting increasing electricity demands; however, a more aggressive push is necessary to significantly shift the balance towards low-carbon sources in the face of environmental concerns and the expanding electricity needs driven by technological advances.
Suggestions
To further increase low-carbon electricity generation, North Carolina can prioritize the expansion of nuclear power plants, given their already significant contribution and reliability in the current mix. Learning from successful regions can also guide these improvements. Neighboring South Carolina, where nuclear energy accounts for more than half of the electricity, exemplifies effective use of nuclear technology. Looking globally, France, with its robust reliance on nuclear power producing 67% of its electricity, sets a stellar benchmark. In terms of solar energy, Nevada provides another model, achieving a 34% contribution from solar power, demonstrating the potential for solar in regions with favorable climates. North Carolina can benefit from adopting similar policies and technologies to enhance its clean energy output, aligning with global success stories to ensure a sustainable energy future.
History
Reflecting on the historical development of low-carbon electricity in North Carolina, the recent years have been marked by incremental, yet meaningful growth in nuclear and solar contributions. In 2024, there was a notable increase in nuclear energy output by 1 terawatt-hour and hydropower by 0.6 terawatt-hours. However, 2025 saw a slight decline in nuclear energy, decreasing by 0.3 terawatt-hours, while hydropower also tapered off, decreasing by 0.2 terawatt-hours. These back-and-forth changes underline the necessity for a stable increase in clean energy production. Small gains in wind and biofuel electricity generation also mark this period, with wind power rising by 0.4 terawatt-hours in 2025, a positive step forward. These shifts underscore the urgent need for steadfast strategies and investments focusing on sustainable, reliable power sources like nuclear and solar to contribute significantly to North Carolina’s clean energy goals.
