Over the past year, from September 2024 to August 2025, Utah has been predominantly relying on fossil fuels for electricity, with more than three-quarters of its supply—approximately 77%—coming from these sources. Coal alone accounts for almost half of the total electricity consumption, standing at about 49%, and natural gas contributes an additional 27%. In contrast, low-carbon options make up close to one-fifth of the electricity mix, with solar being the most significant contributor at nearly 14%. Other low-carbon sources like wind, hydropower, and geothermal deliver smaller shares, collectively adding up to around 5%. Net imports account for the remaining 4% of the supply, illustrating a heavy reliance on external electricity.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Utah?
In terms of overall electricity consumption, Utah is witnessing a decline rather than growth. The state reached a peak electricity consumption of 17,491 kWh per person back in 2008, but the most recent figures for 2025 indicate a sharp decrease to 11,170 kWh per person. This substantial drop of 6,321 kWh per person underscores a troubling trend of reduced electricity use, which could be owing to various socio-economic changes or shifts in industrial activity. However, on a more positive note, low-carbon electricity generation has shown a minor increase. The latest numbers for low-carbon generation have edged up slightly from the previous record set in 2024, rising by a modest 8 kWh per person to reach 2,102 kWh per person in 2025, highlighting a gradual yet crucial shift towards cleaner energy sources.
Suggestions
For Utah to bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, significant expansions in solar capacity are imperative given its existing role as a prominent energy source in the state. Utah can draw inspiration from regions like Nevada and Lebanon, where solar power comprises substantial portions—30% and 31% respectively—of their electricity mix. Furthermore, Utah should also explore diversifying with wind and nuclear energy. States such as Iowa and South Dakota are exemplary with their high wind energy generation, contributing up to 60% and 57% of their electricity. Meanwhile, countries like France and Slovakia demonstrate the potential of nuclear energy as a reliable clean power source, with nuclear accounting for around two-thirds of their electricity. By considering these successful models, Utah can make meaningful strides in increasing its clean electricity share and decreasing its reliance on fossil fuels.
History
Historically, Utah's low-carbon electricity generation has seen varied patterns. In the mid-2000s, hydropower experienced fluctuating outputs, with noticeable increases in 2005 and 2011, counterbalanced by declines in other years like 2007 and 2012. The introduction and expansion of solar power since 2016 have been particularly impressive, with incremental yet significant additions each year, making solar a cornerstone of Utah's clean energy portfolio. Wind power also contributed notably in 2010 and 2016, although its growth has not been as pronounced as solar. The consistent growth in solar and occasional boosts from geothermal energy, evident in 2014, indicate proactive efforts towards cleaner energy generation. Looking forward, Utah has the potential to embrace a more sustainable path by building on this foundation, especially through the continued expansion of its solar and considering the integration of nuclear power for a diversified, resilient, and environmentally friendly electricity system.
