From July 2025 to June 2026, Vermont's electricity consumption primarily relied on imported sources, accounting for just over 60% of the total use. Despite this heavy reliance on external resources, the state showed a commendable inclination towards low-carbon alternatives, which made up about 39%. Hydropower stood out as the most significant form of clean energy at nearly 18%, followed by solar energy, contributing almost 9.5%. Biofuels and wind energy each contributed around 6%, illustrating Vermont's diverse yet modest efforts in fostering sustainable electricity use.

Is Electricity Growing in Vermont?

In comparing current data to previous records, Vermont has experienced growth in overall electricity consumption. The average consumption per person in 2026 reached 9,778 kWh, surpassing the previous high of 9,576 kWh in 2025 by 201 kWh. This is a positive indicator of growing electrification, crucial for Vermont's future, though it is concerning that low-carbon electricity generation per person has slightly declined. In 2026, it dropped to 3,848 kWh per person, from a previous record of 4,182 kWh per person in 2023, indicating a reduction of 333 kWh. Efforts must continue to reverse this decline to address environmental challenges and support the increasing electricity demand.

Suggestions

To boost Vermont's low-carbon electricity generation, the state can draw inspiration from successful regions. South Carolina and New Hampshire, for example, achieve over 50% of their electricity from nuclear power, showcasing the potential impact of nuclear energy within the U.S. Solar energy also offers vast opportunities for growth, as evidenced by Nevada's 35% share and California's 31% contribution. Moreover, the adoption of wind power, which provides more than half of the electricity in Iowa and Denmark, can serve as a model for Vermont to follow. By investing in and expanding nuclear, solar, and wind technologies, Vermont can reduce its dependence on imports while enhancing clean electricity generation.

History

Vermont's history with low-carbon electricity throughout the mid-2020s shows some fluctuations, particularly in hydropower. From 2024 to 2026, the state recorded small but consecutive decreases in hydropower generation, with declines of 0.3 TWh in 2024, followed by an additional 0.1 TWh each in 2025 and 2026. Meanwhile, wind and biofuels maintained a steady output, without notable changes in these years. This trend emphasizes the need for Vermont to reinvigorate its low-carbon electricity initiatives by leveraging advancements in solar and nuclear energy, ensuring a vibrant sustainable future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Jul 2025 – Jun 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.