In 2025, Arkansas generates more than half of its electricity from fossil fuels, with natural gas and coal contributing almost equally, accounting for about 33% and 30% respectively. On the other hand, low-carbon energy sources supply nearly 37% of the state's electricity. Nuclear power is the most significant low-carbon source, providing almost 23% of the state's electricity. Solar power, including both utility-scale and smaller installations, contributes close to 8%, while hydropower and biofuels offer smaller shares. This mix indicates a diverse approach to energy production, though there is significant room for growth in clean energy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, which are linked to climate change and environmental degradation.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Arkansas?
Electricity consumption in Arkansas is on the rise, with the 2025 numbers showing an increase to over 21,600 kWh per person, up by 901 kWh from the previous record in 2023. This growth highlights the increasing demand for electricity, driven potentially by factors like population growth and industrial activity. In terms of low-carbon electricity, Arkansas has also seen significant progress, with the generation hitting almost 7,952 kWh per person in 2025, a notable rise of 956 kWh from 2024. This trend is promising and indicates a shift towards cleaner energy sources, which is vital for sustainable development and improving air quality.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Arkansas should consider expanding its existing nuclear power infrastructure, as it is already a substantial part of the state's energy makeup. Learning from regions successful in clean energy, Arkansas could look to models like France and Slovakia, where nuclear constitutes over 65% of energy production. For expanding solar capacity, states like California and countries like Chile, where solar energy offers more than 20% of the electricity generation, provide valuable lessons. These examples demonstrate the potential benefits of a diverse approach to clean energy expansion, incorporating both solar and nuclear technologies to meet growing electricity demands efficiently.
History
Looking at the history of low-carbon electricity in Arkansas, recent years have shown both challenges and progress. In 2024, nuclear and hydropower saw minor declines, with nuclear dropping by 0.2 TWh and hydropower by 0.1 TWh. However, 2025 marked a positive turnaround with nuclear increasing by 0.4 TWh while hydropower and biofuels each grew by 0.1 TWh. This recent rise in low-carbon generation supports the transition towards cleaner electricity, although maintaining and accelerating this momentum will be crucial for meeting future energy needs.
