Over the past year, from June 2024 to May 2025, electricity consumption in Pennsylvania showcased a significant reliance on fossil energy sources, with more than half of the electricity generated from fossil fuels, specifically gas, which alone contributed to almost 60% of the total. Coal's contribution was smaller, rounding up to nearly 6%. On the clean energy front, approximately a third of Pennsylvania's electricity came from low-carbon sources, with nuclear power being the dominant contributor at just over 30%. Meanwhile, wind energy accounted for a modest 1.5%, indicating potential room for growth in fostering sustainable energy sources.
Is Electricity Growing in Pennsylvania?
Electricity consumption in Pennsylvania is exhibiting growth, albeit small. In 2025, consumption reached 18,992 kWh per person, up by 365 kWh from the previous record set in 2024. Although it is gratifying to see overall electricity consumption increase, low-carbon electricity generation is yet to return to its former peak. The latest figures reveal that Pennsylvania's clean electricity generation stood at 6,440 kWh per person, down by 818 kWh from its record high in 2018. This decline in low-carbon electricity generation, while overall electricity usage is on the rise, highlights an urgent need for Pennsylvania to ramp up its sustainable power sources in the coming years.
Suggestions
For Pennsylvania to boost its low-carbon electricity generation, an expansion of its existing nuclear capacity appears to be a logical step, given the significant role nuclear already plays in the state's energy mix. Learning from regions like France and Slovakia, where nuclear provides a substantial percentage of electricity—close to 70% and 64% respectively—could inform Pennsylvania's strategies to increase nuclear generation. Additionally, insights can be drawn from US states such as New Hampshire and Illinois, where nuclear contributes more than half of the electricity. Regarding solar energy, Pennsylvania might look to places like Nevada and California, which have successfully integrated solar into their energy portfolio, to bolster solar adoption and take advantage of Pennsylvania's capacity for clean energy expansion.
History
Over the decades, Pennsylvania's journey with low-carbon electricity has seen fluctuations, particularly in nuclear energy. In the mid-2000s, the state experienced declines, with nuclear electricity generation decreasing in 2005 and 2006. However, this trend was offset by a resurgence in the following years, notably in 2007, 2008, and a substantial increase in 2013 and 2016. The state witnessed periods of growth in wind energy as well, with consistent positive changes in the early 2010s and a commendable addition in 2013. Recent years have presented challenges, as 2020 marked a significant decline in nuclear energy, continued by a smaller yet concerning decrease until 2023. Notably, 2024 saw a promising rise in solar energy generation, suggesting a positive direction toward diversifying and strengthening low-carbon electricity sources. The overall historical journey underscores an ongoing need for sustained investment and commitment to increasing nuclear, solar, and other clean energy outputs to ensure future energy sustainability and meet burgeoning demand.