In 2024, North Carolina's electricity consumption is predominantly supported by fossil fuels, accounting for a little more than half of the total electricity generation, with gas as the major contributor. Low-carbon sources combined deliver slightly over 40% of the state's electricity, illustrating a significant reliance on cleaner energy technologies. Nuclear power is the cornerstone of North Carolina's low-carbon energy mix, generating close to a third of the state's electricity. Solar energy is making its mark as well, contributing almost 10% to the clean energy effort, whereas hydropower and biofuels contribute smaller shares. Despite the presence of these clean energy options, the state relies on fossil fuel sources, underscoring the need for a shift towards a greener energy landscape.
Is Electricity Growing in North Carolina?
Electricity consumption in North Carolina has experienced a decline, with the current per capita usage standing at 13036 kWh, which has decreased compared to the 2004 peak of 15584 kWh. This drop in consumption reflects changing energy efficiency measures and possibly a shift in industrial or residential electricity use patterns. Low-carbon electricity generation per person has also seen a slight reduction from its previous high in 2020, which marks an area of concern as the state aims to advance its clean energy initiatives. The current decrease in both total and low-carbon electricity generation is cause for attention as fostering growth in clean energy is crucial for sustainable environmental development and meeting future technological demands.
Suggestions
To escalate low-carbon electricity generation, North Carolina can build on its strong nuclear foundation by investing in the expansion of existing nuclear facilities. Learning from other regions, like France and South Carolina, where nuclear power makes up a significant portion of electricity generation, could provide valuable insights into boosting this reliable energy source. Furthermore, increased solar generation is essential, as seen with Lebanon's impressive solar share, and California's notable solar contribution, which North Carolina could emulate. Prioritizing ventures in solar infrastructure in addition to the reliable output from nuclear previously demonstrated by regions such as Slovakia, New Hampshire, and Illinois, would further enhance the state's clean energy portfolio and decrease dependency on fossil fuels.
History
North Carolina's history with low-carbon electricity generation paints a picture of sporadic and sometimes inconsistent growth, especially when examining hydroelectricity, which has seen fluctuations over the years, including declines and periods of growth like the notable increase in 2018. Nuclear power, thankfully, has remained a steady contributor with occasional growth spurts—most recently demonstrated in 2024—after significant among of back-and-fourth expansion in the last decade. Meanwhile, solar power has been steadily growing since 2016, with consistent annual increases, marking a bright spot in the state's low-carbon efforts. Despite the varied progress, the state must focus more intently on consistent growth in clean electricity sectors, particularly nuclear and solar, to ensure a stable and sustainable energy future.