In Vermont, electricity consumption from September 2024 to August 2025 heavily relied on imports, accounting for more than half of the total electricity supply. Low-carbon or clean electricity sources contributed just over a third of the total consumption. Among these green energy sources, hydropower was the largest, providing almost a fifth of the total electricity. Solar energy, including both behind-the-meter and utility-scale, contributed a substantial portion, closely followed by biofuels and wind energy. This data highlights a strong reliance on clean energy sources, although improvements in energy sovereignty and consumption would benefit Vermont.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Vermont?
The trend for electricity consumption in Vermont points toward a decrease when compared to historical records. The latest data for 2025 shows that electricity consumption was about 9,509 kWh per person, significantly lower than the 2009 record of 11,655 kWh per person, marking a reduction of 2,146 kWh per person. Similarly, the state's low-carbon electricity generation also declined to 3,677 kWh per person compared to the 2009 record of almost 11,644 kWh per person, showing a drastic reduction of around 7,967 kWh per person. These figures not only illustrate a concerning decline in overall consumption but also highlight a significant drop in the use of clean energy solutions, which is worrisome for the future sustainability of Vermont’s electricity generation.
Suggestions
To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Vermont can look to successes in other regions. Emulating the nuclear energy infrastructure seen in nearby states like New Hampshire, where nuclear power accounts for more than half of electricity, could enhance Vermont's green energy capacity. Furthermore, Scandinavian countries like Denmark, with a strong focus on wind energy reaching 59%, offer valuable insights into effective wind energy utilization. Vermont could also learn from places like Nevada and California, which have high shares of solar generation, demonstrating the power of the sun as a vital clean electricity source. By capitalizing on these insights, Vermont has the potential to significantly expand its low-carbon electricity footprint with an emphasis on solar and nuclear power.
History
Historically, Vermont's low-carbon electricity varies, with noteworthy shifts over the decades. In the early 2000s, nuclear power experienced growth until 2009, where it saw modest increases. However, this was followed by declines in 2010 and subsequent years, negatively impacting clean energy generation. Hydropower witnessed fluctuations, with increases seen around the late 2000s, yet it recently faced setbacks. From 2013 onwards, biofuels began contributing to the low-carbon mix, providing some stability. The shift in nuclear electricity generation reflects a missed opportunity to enhance Vermont's sustainable energy profile. By reviving commitment to nuclear energy, informed by past lessons, Vermont can better secure its clean energy future.
