In 2024, electricity consumption in Virginia reflects a balanced mix of energy sources, with fossil fuels and clean energy both contributing significantly to the state's electricity needs. More than 40% of electricity in Virginia comes from fossil fuels, with gas being the dominant source. Coal makes up a very small portion, probably amounting to less than 2% of the total. Low-carbon energy, on the other hand, makes up around 28% of Virginia's electricity consumption. Within this group, nuclear energy is the major contributor, accounting for over 20% of the total electricity. Solar power also plays a role, providing close to 5%, while biofuels contribute a bit more than 2%. The state also relies considerably on imported electricity, which constitutes about 29% of its total consumption.
Is Electricity Growing in Virginia?
Electricity consumption in Virginia has been on a moderate rise, as reflected by the latest data showing an increase to 16,201 kWh per person from the previous high of 16,034 kWh in 2022. This marks a modest growth of 167 kWh per person. Similarly, the generation of low-carbon electricity is improving, reaching 4,469 kWh per person, up from the previous record of 4,407 kWh in 2023, with a gain of 62 kWh per person. This incremental growth is promising, but there is room for more vigorous advancement, particularly in the field of clean electricity, to sustainably meet future demands and reduce dependency on fossil fuels.
Suggestions
To accelerate the growth of low-carbon electricity in Virginia, the expansion of nuclear power stands out as a promising path, given its current substantial contribution to the state's electricity mix. Learning from successful regions such as France, where nuclear power accounts for an impressive 68% of their electricity generation, can provide valuable insights. Similarly, increasing solar capacity could also boost clean electricity production. Virginia could draw lessons from regions like Nevada, where solar makes up 27% of their electricity, and Greece and Spain, both of which generate 21% of their electricity from solar. By strategically increasing both nuclear and solar power, Virginia can enhance its clean energy portfolio, reduce reliance on imports, and mitigate the adverse effects associated with fossil fuel consumption.
History
Virginia's history of low-carbon electricity generation reflects an evolving focus on clean energy sources. Entering the 21st century, there were significant developments in nuclear power, such as a 0.7 TWh increase in 2008 followed by fluctuations in subsequent years. The 2010s saw various changes, including notable increases like 3.2 TWh in 2012, and decreases, including a decline of 2.2 TWh in 2015. Notably, solar power began to make its mark from 2021 onwards, with consistent growth, reaching an increase of 1.6 TWh by 2024. While recent years have seen some declines in nuclear power, these are contrasted by the rise in solar power, indicating a diversifying approach to low-carbon energy in Virginia. The encouragement here is to embrace this trajectory and amplify efforts to expand nuclear and solar electricity to create a more robust and sustainable low-carbon energy system.