Electricity in United States in 2024

In the United States in 2024, electricity generation is primarily based on fossil fuels, with nearly 58% sourced from these energy types, the lion's share of which is natural gas at about 42%. Coal contributes close to 15%, while biofuels round out the fossil category with just over 1%. On the other hand, low-carbon or clean energy sources account for around 42% of electricity generation, with nuclear power leading this category at almost 18%. Wind energy provides more than 10% of the electricity, followed by solar at nearly 7%, and hydropower at over 5%. It is evident from this data that while fossil fuels remain dominant, low-carbon sources have gained significant ground in powering the nation.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation in the United States, it is crucial to expand both nuclear and wind energy capacities, given their substantial existing contributions to the grid. Learning from countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear power constitutes 68% and 62% of electricity, respectively, the U.S. could also bolster its nuclear infrastructure to achieve similar results. Likewise, Denmark serves as a prime example in wind energy, deriving 52% of its power from this clean source. The U.S. can draw inspiration from these successful countries by enhancing policy support, investing in infrastructure, and streamlining the regulatory processes to support the growth of these sustainable energy types. Such initiatives would not only boost low-carbon electricity generation but also mitigate the negative impacts of fossil fuels, such as climate change and air pollution.

History

Historically, the growth of low-carbon electricity in the United States has seen significant developments, particularly in nuclear and wind energy. The late 1970s through the 1980s marked substantial increases in nuclear energy production, with notable increments in 1975, 1977, 1985, 1988, and 1990. However, there was a brief decline in 1997 offset by a subsequent increase in 1998 and 1999. The early 2000s showed some fluctuations in hydropower generation, with both decreases and increases in electricity output, further highlighting the necessity for reliable energy sources like nuclear. More recent years saw notable progress in wind energy, as evidenced by the substantial jump in 2022, and a significant increase in solar generation in 2024. These trends underscore the potential for and importance of enhancing the U.S. low-carbon electricity infrastructure, particularly in nuclear, wind, and solar energy, to meet future electricity needs sustainably and efficiently.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources