From July 2025 to June 2026, North Carolina's electricity consumption showed a balanced mix of fossil and low-carbon energy sources. Fossil fuels accounted for nearly half of the state's electricity, with natural gas contributing more than a third and coal making up almost 12%. On the low-carbon side, nuclear power was the standout, providing over a quarter of the state's electricity, while solar, including utility-scale solar, added approximately 9% and hydropower contributed close to 3%. Net imports filled a little more than 11% of the demand. These figures indicate a significant reliance on clean energy sources, though fossil fuels still play a major role in the state's energy mix.

Is Electricity Growing in North Carolina?

When evaluating the growth of electricity consumption in North Carolina, recent data shows a slight increase. In 2026, electricity use rose to 13,890 kWh per person, surpassing the previous high set in 2025 by a tiny margin of 31 kWh. However, low-carbon electricity generation per person has seen a decline by 98 kWh since 2025, dropping to 5,618 kWh. This contrasting trend between total electricity consumption and low-carbon generation suggests an overall growth in electricity usage, yet highlights the need for strengthening the share of clean energy solutions to contribute to sustainable development in the state.

Suggestions

To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, North Carolina should consider expanding its existing nuclear capacity, capitalizing on its significant contribution to the state's clean energy mix. Moreover, by looking at successful regions such as South Carolina, which derives over half of its electricity from nuclear sources, North Carolina can gain insights into expanding this reliable and sustainable energy form. Solar energy also offers great potential; emulating states like California and countries like Chile, where substantial portions of their electricity come from solar power, could lead to a marked increase in solar energy deployment. With these strategies, North Carolina can build on their current clean energy foundation and continue growing its low-carbon electricity capacity to better meet future energy demands.

History

Historically, North Carolina's low-carbon electricity generation has seen some fluctuations. In 2024, the state achieved growth in nuclear power and hydropower, with additional generation increases of 1 TWh and 0.6 TWh, respectively. However, a decline in nuclear and hydropower was observed in subsequent years, with 2025 experiencing setbacks in nuclear output and further reductions in 2026. Wind energy showed minor movement, only seeing an increase of 0.4 TWh in 2025, and levels remained unchanged in 2026. These patterns suggest an opportunity for more strategic planning and investment in stable and sustainable low-carbon technologies, particularly nuclear and solar, to ensure a robust and growing clean energy sector for the 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.