Between September 2024 and August 2025, North Carolina's electricity consumption demonstrated a reliance on both fossil and low-carbon energy sources, with each group playing a significant role. Fossil sources made up nearly half of the electricity mix at about 49%, driven predominantly by natural gas, which alone accounted for almost 38%. Coal, while historically significant, has been reduced to just over 11%. Low-carbon energy sources almost rivaled fossil fuels, contributing close to 43% of the electricity. Nuclear energy was the backbone of clean electricity generation, providing nearly 30%. Solar power, while smaller, contributed a noteworthy almost 8.5%, and hydropower and biofuels made smaller contributions, with roughly 3% and 1%, respectively. Meanwhile, net imports stood at nearly 8%.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in North Carolina?
In terms of electricity consumption trends, North Carolina has witnessed a decline from its historic peak. In 2025, the state recorded a total electricity consumption of approximately 13,115 kWh per person, signaling a reduction of around 2,470 kWh compared to the all-time high recorded in 2004. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation per person has seen a subtle decrease since the previous record set in 2020. The recent figures indicate a reduction of approximately 277 kWh per person. This decline requires attention, as expanding clean energy is vital for addressing climate change and meeting future demands driven by electrification and advancements like artificial intelligence.
Suggestions
To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, North Carolina should consider expanding its nuclear capabilities, given its substantial existing share among the low-carbon mix. This aligns with successful models from other regions, such as France and Slovakia, where nuclear power provides the vast majority of electricity. Furthermore, North Carolina can look to regions like Lebanon and Nevada, where solar power contributes a significant portion of the electricity mix. Expanding both solar and nuclear capabilities will help the state progress toward a more sustainable energy future while reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating their associated environmental impacts.
History
In tracing the history of low-carbon electricity in North Carolina, notable changes occurred from the mid-2000s to the early 2020s. The state experienced a pronounced increase in solar power between 2016 and 2022, consistently augmenting its output. However, hydroelectric power presented fluctuations, with both gains and reductions over the years. The nuclear sector demonstrated resilience with occasional boosts, particularly in 2009, 2013, 2015, and again in 2024. Identifying and supporting these positive trends is imperative to strengthen North Carolina’s clean energy infrastructure, ensuring progress toward more sustainable electricity generation.
