From July 2025 to June 2026, Washington, D.C.'s electricity consumption heavily relied on net imports, accounting for more than 95% of the total. Low-carbon energy sources, which include both solar and other clean technologies, contributed just over 4% of the electricity consumed. Specifically, solar power made up about 4% and behind-the-meter (BTM) solar installations accounted for roughly 3.5% of the consumption. The reliance on net imports highlights the area's dependency on external electricity sources, while the use of low-carbon energy remains marginal but critical for future sustainability and climate goals.

Is Electricity Growing in Washington, D.C.?

There has been a slight decrease in the overall electricity consumption in Washington, D.C. The most recent data, as of 2026, shows that the total electricity use per person was 16,275 kWh, which saw a reduction of 65 kWh from the previous record in 2025. However, in contrast, low-carbon electricity generation per person increased from the previous year, with an improvement of 114 kWh per person from 614 kWh in 2025 to 728 kWh in 2026. This increase in clean energy generation is a positive trend, indicating a growing focus on sustainable energy sources despite the overall modest decline in electricity consumption.

Suggestions

To boost low-carbon electricity generation in Washington, D.C., learning from other regions with successful clean energy strategies is vital. States like New Jersey and Maryland have harnessed nuclear energy to contribute a significant 33% and 22%, respectively, to their electricity consumption. Additionally, looking towards solar power champions such as California, which generates 31% of its electricity from solar, and countries like the United Arab Emirates with their 20% from nuclear energy, could provide a roadmap for Washington, D.C. Expanding nuclear and solar capacity could significantly mitigate dependence on fossil fuels and reduce associated negative impacts like climate change and air pollution, steering the city towards a sustainable low-carbon future.

History

In the last few years, Washington, D.C.'s low-carbon electricity landscape has been relatively stable, particularly where biofuels are concerned, with no significant change recorded from 2024 to 2026 in that category. There are no declines in nuclear electricity generation mentioned for the period, but the city’s consistent reliance on net imports underscores the need for a strategic pivot towards enhancing its capacity in local low-carbon electricity generation. Given the urgent need for sustainability, concerted efforts to leverage nuclear and solar energy, as demonstrated by other regions, will be crucial in reducing fossil fuel dependence and achieving cleaner electricity generation in Washington, D.C.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

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