In Ohio, electricity consumption in 2025 shows a substantial reliance on fossil fuels, with about two-thirds coming from these sources. Natural gas accounts for nearly half of the total electricity generation while coal contributes just over a fifth. However, low-carbon electricity generation remains relatively small, representing nearly one-sixth of the total, with nuclear energy making up the largest share of this at nearly 10%. Solar energy, primarily utility-scale, contributes just under 5%, and wind energy accounts for a little more than 1%. Additionally, Ohio also relies on net electricity imports, constituting almost a sixth of its electricity supply. This highlights an opportunity for enhancing local clean energy production to decrease dependence on imports and fossil fuels, ensuring a more sustainable future.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Ohio?
Electricity consumption in Ohio is on the rise, with the 2025 per capita consumption reaching 14,984 kWh, an increase of 1,213 kWh per person from the previous record set in 2024. This growth is a positive trend, reflecting the rising demand as the state moves towards more electrification in daily life and industry. The boost in low-carbon electricity is also noteworthy, with per capita generation hitting 2,471 kWh, expanding by 280 kWh per person compared to the previous high in 2024. This increase emphasizes Ohio’s gradual shift towards greener energy sources, although there remains significant room for improvement to match or exceed the growth in overall electricity consumption.
Suggestions
For Ohio to increase its low-carbon electricity generation, it can learn from successful regions worldwide. States like Iowa and Kansas, where wind power meets around half of electricity needs, demonstrate the potential for wind energy expansion in areas with favorable conditions. Solar energy can also be ramped up by emulating places like Nevada, with its solar generation reaching one-third of their total electricity. Particularly relevant for Ohio, Illinois’ achievement of generating half its electricity from nuclear plants serves as an inspiring model. Expanding both nuclear and solar capacity in Ohio could significantly enhance its clean electricity share, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and fostering a more sustainable energy landscape.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Ohio shows varying levels of progress. In 2024, nuclear power saw a significant boost of 1.7 TWh, which represented a hopeful stride in clean energy production that year. However, the following year, 2025, encountered a troubling setback with a decline of 0.8 TWh in nuclear generation. While wind energy made a modest gain of 0.2 TWh in 2025, it was not enough to offset the decline in nuclear. This underlines the importance of consistent support and development of nuclear and wind energy infrastructures to sustain and enhance green energy production. By investing in and prioritizing these low-carbon technologies, Ohio can work towards achieving a cleaner, more resilient energy future.
