From June 2024 through May 2025, electricity consumption in Wisconsin was dominated by fossil fuels, contributing a significant 64% to the overall energy mix. Coal and gas were almost equally split under the fossil fuel umbrella, together providing the bulk of electricity. In contrast, low-carbon energy sources, including nuclear, solar, wind, hydropower, and biofuels, made up a quarter of the electricity consumed. Nuclear energy was the largest contributor within the low-carbon mix, making up more than half of this category. Net imports accounted for a little over a tenth, while solar, wind, hydropower, and biofuels together formed the rest, with each of these representing minor fractions of the total electricity. Understanding the distribution between fossil and low-carbon sources is crucial for addressing climate change and reducing air pollution associated with fossil fuel consumption.
Is Electricity Growing in Wisconsin?
Despite global trends towards electrification and increased electricity demand, Wisconsin's electricity consumption has not surpassed its previous heights. In 2025, Wisconsin's electricity consumption per person was about 12,246 kWh, a decline of more than 1,100 kWh from its peak in 2007. While total electricity consumption has decreased, the low-carbon electricity generation per person also saw a reduction from its historic peak in 2012, down by nearly 270 kWh. This stagnant and declining trend in both total electricity and clean energy consumption is concerning, as it suggests a need for heightened efforts to embrace low-carbon electricity to meet future demands for clean and sustainable power in Wisconsin.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Wisconsin could benefit significantly from expanding its existing nuclear facilities since nuclear energy already provides substantial clean power for the state. Encouraging successful examples from other regions, such as France, where nuclear power accounts for a substantial portion of electricity, could provide valuable insights. Moreover, Wisconsin could look towards advancements in solar energy, following examples like Nevada, where solar accounts for a notable share of its electricity. Additionally, regions such as Iowa and South Dakota have demonstrated outstanding contributions from wind energy, which could also serve as an inspiration for Wisconsin to tap into its potential wind resources, effectively diversifying and strengthening its low-carbon portfolio.
History
Looking at Wisconsin's history of low-carbon electricity, the state witnessed fluctuating changes in nuclear generation through the early 2000s, with some years seeing notable expansion and others unfortunate setbacks. The nuclear sector saw periodic increases in generation, notably from 2006 to 2007, but also faced declines during other periods, indicating a need for more stable growth strategies. Meanwhile, hydropower experienced increases alongside nuclear during the early 2010s, although it too saw declines at times. The recent years have shown promising growth in solar power, showing sizeable gains in 2024 and continued improvements in 2025. This forward momentum in solar provides a hopeful outlook for bolstering Wisconsin's low-carbon energy generation as it works to ensure a sustainable future.