In Wyoming, the current state of electricity consumption is dominated by fossil fuels, which account for almost three-quarters of the total electricity generated, with coal alone representing close to 60%. Low-carbon sources, on the other hand, make up about a quarter of the electricity mix, with wind producing almost 23% and a smaller contribution from hydropower at just over 2%. Gas-fired power contributes a little over 13%, while solar remains a minor player, generating a little over 1% of electricity. The dominance of fossil fuels in Wyoming’s electricity supply underscores the significant challenge the state faces in transitioning to cleaner, more sustainable energy sources.
Is Electricity Growing in Wyoming?
Electricity consumption in Wyoming appears to be on a downturn, reflecting a broader trend in reduced energy use. The latest figures from 2024 show each person consuming about 70,074 kWh, a decrease of more than 20,000 kWh per person from the 2013 record high. Low-carbon electricity generation is also experiencing a slight decline, with the latest per-person figure of 18,206 kWh just below a recent record set in 2022. This stagnation in both overall and low-carbon electricity demand raises concerns, particularly given the growing need for clean energy in combating climate change and reducing air pollution.
Suggestions
To boost its low-carbon electricity generation, Wyoming should prioritize expanding its wind energy capacity, already a significant part of its clean energy portfolio. Looking beyond its borders, Wyoming can draw lessons from regions that have successfully harnessed both wind and nuclear power. States like Iowa and South Dakota experience high wind penetration rates of over 50%, presenting Wyoming with successful wind energy models. Furthermore, embracing nuclear energy could prove beneficial, as seen in countries like France and states such as New Hampshire, where nuclear accounts for more than half of the electricity mix. Additionally, Wyoming could learn from the successes of solar-rich regions like Lebanon and Nevada, where solar energy generates more than a quarter of electricity, illustrating the potential for significant solar expansion.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Wyoming reveals a journey of incremental growth primarily driven by wind energy, particularly since the early 2000s. Between 2008 and 2011, wind power saw impressive annual increases, peaking in 2011 with a 1.4 TWh rise. However, the following years brought some fluctuation with mixed results, such as a significant dip in 2013, only to recover by 2020 to reach similar levels of growth as those seen in earlier years. Solar energy entered the scene more recently, beginning its contribution in 2019 and showing modest growth. Despite advancing at a slower pace, the persistent evolution of both wind and solar capacity underscores Wyoming's potential for further enhancing its low-carbon electricity generation.