Over the past twelve months, from September 2024 to August 2025, Pennsylvania's electricity consumption has predominantly relied on fossil fuels. More than half of the energy, specifically around 65%, is generated from fossil sources, with natural gas being the dominant contributor at approximately 59%. Coal accounts for a smaller fraction, constituting nearly 7% of the electricity mix. In contrast, low-carbon electricity generation makes up approximately a third of the total consumption, with nuclear energy being the leading clean energy source at about 30%. However, contributions from other low-carbon technologies like wind and solar are marginal, contributing around 1.5% and 1.2% respectively.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Pennsylvania?
The data reveals a modest increase in overall electricity consumption in Pennsylvania, with the latest consumption figures reaching 18,965 kWh per person, surpassing the previous record set in 2021 by 373 kWh. However, the trend in low-carbon electricity generation is concerning, as the latest figures show a decline to 6,503 kWh per person, which is 788 kWh less than the record high in 2018. This indicates a backward trend in Pennsylvania's clean electricity generation, highlighting the need to bolster clean energy activities to meet future demands and environmental goals.
Suggestions
To enhance Pennsylvania's low-carbon electricity generation, expanding existing nuclear capacity should be a focal point given its already substantial contribution to the state's energy mix. Learning from the successes of regions such as France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy accounts for 70% and 66% of their electricity, respectively, can provide insights into maximizing nuclear efficiency. Similarly, states like Nevada and California showcase the potential of solar power, with solar contributing 33% and 29% of their energy mix, respectively. Pennsylvania should consider these models to ramp up both nuclear and solar capacities, ensuring a robust and sustainable future for its energy sector.
History
In reviewing the history of Pennsylvania’s low-carbon electricity landscape, fluctuations in nuclear energy output have been notable. During the late 2000s, there were periods of both decline and growth. Significant increases occurred in 2007, 2008, and notably in 2013 and 2016, indicating potential periods of investment or technological enhancements. Conversely, the critical decrease in nuclear output in 2020, dropping by an alarming 6.7 TWh, coupled with a reduction in hydroelectric power, is disappointing. This highlights the necessity for stable and consistent investment in nuclear infrastructure and technology to prevent such declines and continue a growth trajectory in clean and sustainable electricity generation.
