In Pennsylvania, more than half of the electricity in 2025, approximately 65%, comes from fossil energy sources, with gas being the most significant contributor at about 58%. Coal contributes a smaller fraction, around 7%. On the cleaner side of the spectrum, low-carbon energy accounts for a little over a third of the state's electricity consumption, at 34%. Nuclear energy constitutes the bulk of this category, providing about 30% of Pennsylvania's electricity, showcasing its crucial role in supporting the state's low-carbon goals. Wind and solar together make up a modest contribution, with both hovering around 1.4% each, indicating a potential area for growth in the state's clean energy profile.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Pennsylvania?
Electricity consumption in Pennsylvania is on an upward trajectory. In 2025, each individual in Pennsylvania consumed nearly 18,979 kWh, marking an increase of 440 kWh per person from the previous year's record. This growth extends to low-carbon electricity as well, with each resident utilizing about 6,515 kWh from these sources, an increase of 90 kWh compared to 2024. The steady rise in both total and low-carbon electricity consumption underscores the need for continuous expansion in clean energy to meet the increasing demand and to actively mitigate climate change impacts, reduce air pollution, and support economic growth through electrification.
Suggestions
To bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, Pennsylvania should consider expanding its existing nuclear capacity, a sector that already significantly supports the state's clean energy mix. Drawing inspiration from regions like France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy accounts for more than two-thirds of their electricity, Pennsylvania could greatly benefit from similar enhancements. Additionally, the state could also learn from solar innovations, as seen in California, where solar constitutes 31% of electricity generation, or Nevada, with solar at 34%. Emulating these success stories could empower Pennsylvania to transition towards a more sustainable energy future, effectively complementing its strong foundation in nuclear energy.
History
Historically, Pennsylvania has seen relatively stable low-carbon electricity generation with minor fluctuations. In the mid-2020s, nuclear energy showed solid contributions; however, 2025 marked a slight downturn with a reduction of 0.4 TWh. This was partially offset by a modest growth in wind energy, which increased by 0.3 TWh in the same year. Unlike nuclear, the hydro and biofuel sectors have not seen significant boosts and, in fact, recorded minor decreases or stagnation in recent years. These trends highlight the critical need for expansion and rejuvenation in the nuclear and solar sectors to sustain Pennsylvania's clean energy growth and secure a reliable and sustainable electricity future.
