In the period from September 2024 to August 2025, Illinois saw clear trends in its electricity consumption, particularly in the split between low-carbon and fossil energy. Low-carbon sources accounted for more than two-thirds of the state's electricity consumption, at approximately 68%. A substantial portion of this, more than half, came from nuclear energy, which contributed around 51%. Wind and solar, as crucial components of clean energy, contributed about 13% and 4%, respectively. On the fossil fuel front, nearly a third of the electricity came from traditional sources, with natural gas and coal providing 16% and 15%, respectively. This clear dominance of low-carbon electricity is a positive indicator for Illinois as it endeavors to transition to cleaner energy solutions.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Illinois?
When considering the broader trend of electricity consumption in Illinois, there seems to be a mild decline. The most recent data shows that electricity consumption is at 15,292 kWh per person, which is slightly below the record high of 15,774 kWh per person in 2007. Despite this decrease in total electricity usage by 481 kWh per person, there is positive momentum in the low-carbon sector. The latest figures for low-carbon electricity generation have risen to 10,461 kWh per person, marking an increase of 295 kWh from the previous year. This suggests that while overall electricity consumption may have dipped, the share from low-carbon sources is on the rise, hinting at a strategic shift towards cleaner energy.
Suggestions
Increasing low-carbon electricity generation in Illinois could be effectively achieved by expanding existing nuclear and wind capacities, given their significant current contributions. Illinois might also learn from both US states like Iowa and countries such as France, where wind and nuclear energy dominate, respectively. Iowa's reliance on wind power for 60% of its electricity generation is a testament to the potential of this sustainable source. Meanwhile, France's impressive reliance on nuclear energy at 70% underscores the feasibility and benefits of nuclear power in achieving a low-carbon grid. By taking cues from these regions, Illinois can further bolster its low-carbon initiatives, integrating increased solar deployment as seen in states like Nevada and California, which generate around 33% and 29% of their electricity from solar power respectively.
History
The historical trajectory of low-carbon electricity in Illinois demonstrates significant progress, notably in the development of wind and nuclear energy. From the late 2000s to the present, wind energy has been on a considerable upward trajectory, with multiple years seeing incremental increases in generation, particularly notable jumps of 2.9 TWh in 2021 and 4.4 TWh in 2022. Nuclear energy, though experiencing some fluctuations, such as the substantial decline of 3.3 TWh in 2021, has generally been stable with periodic growth, including robust increases like the 1.7 TWh in 2024. This consistent growth trajectory, especially in wind energy, reveals an ongoing commitment to expanding Illinois’ low-carbon electricity capacity. Overall, this demonstrates a commitment to cleaner and more sustainable electricity generation, setting a positive precedent for future strategic energy enhancements.
