In the period from July 2025 to June 2026, Tennessee's electricity consumption has shown a diverse energy mix with a notable share coming from low-carbon sources. This mix includes nuclear power and clean imports constituting more than half of the total electricity. Nuclear alone provides almost a third of the electricity at approximately 32%, while hydropower and solar contribute around 6% and close to 2%, respectively. The reliance on fossil fuels, including coal and gas, stands at approximately 29%, with coal and gas nearly equally divided, each providing around 14% to 15%. The data highlights Tennessee's significant strides in adhering to low-carbon energy solutions, yet focusing more on increasing the share of clean energy is crucial for a sustainable future.

Is Electricity Growing in Tennessee?

Electricity usage in Tennessee appears to be on an upward trajectory, with the latest figures showing a per person consumption of 16,160 kWh in 2026, which marks an increase of 164 kWh from the previous high in 2025. This growth suggests a positive trend in electricity demand, likely driven by economic growth and technological advancements. However, despite this overall increase, the contribution from low-carbon energy sources has experienced a minor decline. The latest per person electricity generation from low-carbon sources dropped by 104 kWh compared to the record set in 2023. This discrepancy is somewhat concerning given the importance of expanding clean energy as a primary goal for combating climate change and enhancing energy security.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Tennessee should focus on expanding its already significant nuclear capacity. The data shows that regions like France and Illinois have maintained substantial contributions from nuclear energy, with France sourcing more than two-thirds of its electricity from this source. Additionally, the growth of solar energy could be bolstered by learning from states like California and Nevada, where solar power contributes significantly to their electricity mix at rates around 31% and 35%, respectively. The potential benefits of diversifying into solar and wind energy are evident from states like Iowa and Denmark, which generate a significant proportion of their electricity from wind. Harnessing this combination of expanding nuclear and enhancing solar and wind energy could set Tennessee on a path toward increased clean energy and reduced fossil fuel dependence.

History

Reflecting on the historical trends, Tennessee has witnessed some fluctuations in its low-carbon electricity generation. In recent years, notably during 2024 and 2025, there was a decline in nuclear output by 5.8 TWh and 2.9 TWh respectively. The reduction during this period is a cause for concern as it counteracts efforts to maximize low-carbon energy. However, 2026 saw a notable recovery with an increase of 8.2 TWh in nuclear generation, signifying a promising rebound and signaling the untapped potential of nuclear energy. Historically, limited changes in hydropower and biofuels indicate stability, yet a further boost in these and other green energy forms could propel Tennessee toward sustained electrical and environmental prosperity.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Jul 2025 – Jun 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.