In the United States, as of 2025, electricity consumption reflects a notable balance between fossil fuels and low-carbon sources. Over half of the electricity, around 57%, comes from fossil fuels, with natural gas making up almost 39% and coal contributing roughly 17%. On the other hand, low-carbon energy supplies close to 43% of the electricity, showcasing a significant reliance on cleaner sources. Nuclear power, a crucial part of low-carbon energy, is responsible for just over 17% of the total electricity. Wind and solar power together account for nearly 18%, with wind contributing just over 10% and solar around 8% of the overall electricity consumed. Hydropower also plays a role, adding approximately 6% to the mix. Although biofuels constitute a minimal portion, roughly 1%, their inclusion underscores the diverse nature of low-carbon energy sources in the country.
Data sources used on this page include IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in United States?
The trajectory of electricity consumption in the United States presents a complex picture. While the total electricity usage per person has decreased from a peak in 2005, standing at 13,260 kWh per person in 2025, which denotes a drop of about 1,346 kWh per person, there is a silver lining in the growing share of low-carbon electricity. Notably, low-carbon electricity generation has reached a new high of 5,660 kWh per person, marking an increase of 322 kWh per person from the previous year. This shift towards cleaner energy is a positive development that illustrates a commitment to reducing reliance on fossil fuels, though it's imperative that total electricity growth resumes to accommodate expanding industries and technologies.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, the United States can expand its nuclear and wind energy capabilities, given their existing substantial contributions. Drawing inspiration from regions effectively utilizing clean energy could provide a pathway for growth. France and Slovakia, with their high shares of nuclear energy, demonstrate the potential of nuclear power, with both countries deriving around two-thirds of their electricity this way. At the same time, Denmark and states like Iowa and South Dakota illustrate how wind can supply substantial portions of electricity, ranging from 58% to 60%. The United States can benefit from further investments and policies that promote the expansion of nuclear and solar energy based on these examples. For solar energy, looking at regions like California, which generates around 31% from solar sources, could offer valuable insights into maximizing solar potential.
History
Historically, the United States has witnessed varied growth in low-carbon electricity sources. In the late 1970s and throughout the 1980s, there were significant upticks in nuclear power, such as in 1975 and 1988, when it increased by over 60 TWh and 76 TWh respectively. The 1990s saw a continuation in nuclear's expansion with multiple years, including 1999, where output increased by significant margins. In contrast, hydroelectric power experienced notable fluctuations, with major decreases in 1977 and 2001 but rebounds like in 1978 and 2002. The early 2020s showed a promising surge in wind power, with 2022 experiencing an increase of over 56 TWh. These historical insights underscore the importance of consistent policy and investment in energy infrastructure to sustain low-carbon electricity growth and reduce dependency on fossil fuels.
