Over the past year, from April 2025 to March 2026, Wisconsin's electricity consumption leaned heavily on fossil energy sources, with more than half, specifically about 60%, coming from these sources. Gas accounted for around 31%, while coal provided 29%. Low-carbon energy sources, which are crucial for reducing emissions, constituted roughly 26% of the total electricity consumption. Nuclear energy alone contributed 13%, making it the most significant low-carbon source, with solar and hydropower adding approximately 9% combined. Close to 14% of electricity was imported, highlighting Wisconsin's dependency on external sources to meet its energy needs.

Is Electricity Growing in Wisconsin?

Electricity consumption in Wisconsin has seen a slight uptick, with the latest figures showing an increase to 12,970 kWh per person, a marginal rise from the previous year's 12,950. This reflects a positive trajectory in overall electricity usage, albeit a modest one, suggesting steady growth. Additionally, the generation of low-carbon electricity per person climbed to 3,371 kWh from the previous record of 3,347 kWh. Such incremental advancements in both total and low-carbon electricity consumption indicate a gradual but essential shift towards a more sustainable energy profile.

Suggestions

To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Wisconsin should consider expanding its nuclear facilities, given their significant contribution to the current energy mix. Successful regions like France and Illinois, where nuclear energy makes up half or more of the electricity supply, demonstrate the substantial potential of this energy source. Wisconsin could also harness the experiences of states like Nevada and California in scaling solar energy, given their proficiency in generating a substantial portion of their electricity from solar power. Additionally, with Iowa leading the way in wind energy, there’s ample opportunity to explore wind power expansion, although nuclear and solar should be prioritized for their proven high capacity.

History

Looking back at Wisconsin's journey in low-carbon electricity, the early 2020s saw incremental growth, particularly in nuclear, wind, and hydroelectric power. The year 2024 marked notable increases in nuclear and wind power, each contributing positively to the state's clean energy tally. However, a worrying decline in nuclear and wind generation was recorded in 2026, stalling the previous year's growth. This unexpected downturn in nuclear generation, especially, signals an urgent need for proactive strategies to prevent further declines and to ensure Wisconsin can maintain and expand its low-carbon electricity generation paths.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

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