In the latest year, spanning from September 2024 to August 2025, electricity consumption in Wisconsin shows a significant reliance on fossil fuels, which account for over 60% of the state's electricity production. Notably, natural gas and coal contribute almost equally to this share, emphasizing a considerable dependence on fossil energy. In contrast, low-carbon energy sources constitute about a quarter of the electricity mix, with nuclear energy making up more than half of that clean energy contribution. Other low-carbon sources such as solar, hydropower, and wind each play a smaller role, contributing to the state's move towards sustainable energy but marking room for significant growth. Net imports of electricity also form a notable part of the picture, suggesting a reliance on energy resources beyond the state's borders.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Wisconsin?
Electricity consumption in Wisconsin, measured at 12,806 kWh per person in 2025, shows a concerning decrease when compared with the peak consumption record of 14,170 kWh per person in 2007. This decline of more than 1,300 kWh per person suggests stagnation or even a reduction in electricity usage, which is concerning given the growing need for clean energy infrastructure to meet future demands and combat climate change. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation has seen a slight decrease to 3,219 kWh per person compared to the previous record in 2012. This downturn, although slight, signals a missed opportunity for growth in sustainable energy production that could support Wisconsin's transition away from fossil fuels.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation in Wisconsin, it's critical to expand existing nuclear capacity due to its reliable and substantial contribution to the clean electricity mix. Wisconsin can glean insights from successful regions such as Illinois, where over half of the electricity is derived from nuclear energy, and France, where nuclear power meets a staggering 68% of electricity needs. Furthermore, Wisconsin should consider enhancing its solar capacity, taking cues from states like Nevada, where solar energy accounts for a third of the electricity mix. Emulating strategies from regions like Iowa and South Dakota, known for their successful wind energy adoption, could also significantly contribute to a greener energy portfolio in Wisconsin.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Wisconsin has had its share of growth and setbacks, particularly in nuclear energy. In the early 2000s, nuclear electricity generation saw fluctuations, with notable increases in 2006 and 2009, but these were often followed by significant declines, such as in 2011 and 2013. The state's commitment to nuclear energy was inconsistent, leading to periods of reduced output. In more recent years, solar energy has emerged with considerable promise, experiencing growth with increases of 0.5 TWh in 2023 and another 1.7 TWh in 2024. This solar expansion indicates a positive trend towards increasing low-carbon electricity generation, suggesting that with continued investment and policy support, Wisconsin can build a robust and clean energy future.
