In Tennessee from September 2024 to August 2025, electricity consumption has seen varied contributions from multiple sources. Net imports make up about 37% of the electricity, showing reliance on external generation. Fossil energies contribute more than half, with coal and gas almost equally split at about 16% each. On the other hand, low-carbon sources make up approximately 31% of the electricity, slightly trailing behind fossil fuels. Nuclear power is the dominant player within the low-carbon category, accounting for more than 22%. This is combined with smaller contributions from hydropower and solar energy, accounting for around 7% and 1% respectively. This diverse energy portfolio demonstrates Tennessee's ongoing transition towards cleaner energy sources although it still heavily leans on fossil fuel consumption.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Tennessee?
Despite the urgent need for more electricity generation, Tennessee has seen a decline in overall electricity consumption. The latest figures in 2025 indicate that residents use about 15,756 kWh per person, which is a significant drop from the historic high in 2005, where it was nearly 19,330 kWh per person. This is concerning, especially as it coincides with a decline in low-carbon electricity generation, with the latest number at approximately 4,931 kWh per person, once again marking a drop from the 2020 record of 7,306 kWh per person. Such declines highlight the importance of urgently ramping up clean electricity production to meet the growing demand of emerging technologies and the push towards broader electrification.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity production, expanding Tennessee's successful nuclear capacity should be prioritized given its current substantial contributions. Learning from countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy accounts for over 65% of their electricity, can offer valuable insights. Emulating their sustained nuclear development strategies could significantly boost Tennessee's low-carbon output. In addition, exploring solar energy opportunities can follow the footsteps of states like Nevada and California, where solar accounts for as much as 33% and 29% of electricity generation respectively. By fostering the growth of these clean energy sources, Tennessee can significantly bolster its commitment to cleaner, more sustainable energy.
History
Historically, Tennessee's journey in low-carbon generation has experienced fluctuations. Nuclear energy has seen several changes, with ups and downs—most notably, strong growths in 2007, 2016, and 2018 where significant gains were made. However, recent years have shown a worrying trend with sharp decreases in 2024 and 2025, which place an alarming dent in Tennessee's clean energy trajectory. Hydropower has also seen its share of variability, with notable decreases around 2007, 2010, and 2021. Despite these challenges, Tennessee's past ability to boost nuclear output in years like 2017 and 2023 highlights the potential for future growth if prioritized. Accelerating the development of clean energy, particularly solar and nuclear, will be crucial for Tennessee to reverse these declines and harness a more resilient, clean energy future.
