Over the last twelve months, from September 2024 through August 2025, electricity consumption in Louisiana has predominantly relied on fossil fuels, which constitute nearly 70% of total electricity generation. Natural gas alone accounts for more than 63%, while coal contributes around 4%, illustrating a heavy reliance on fossil energy sources. In contrast, low-carbon energy contributes almost 18% of electricity, with nuclear energy being the most significant, providing over 13% of the share. Solar energy, although modest, offers close to 2%, reflecting some movement towards cleaner resources. Net imports make up approximately 12% of Louisiana's electricity mix, further highlighting the need for increased local low-carbon production to mitigate dependence on both fossil fuels and external sources.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Louisiana?
In recent years, electricity consumption in Louisiana has decreased. In 2025, the total electricity consumption per person stood at about 24,934 kWh, which is a decline of 1,158 kWh per person from 2022's record high. This signals a trend of declining electricity usage, causing concerns, especially given the state’s largely stagnant clean energy sector. The same trend is noted in low-carbon electricity generation, with the latest figures showing 4,462 kWh per person, a reduction of 426 kWh since the previous record set in 2010. This drop in both total and low-carbon electricity consumption calls for the urgent expansion of clean energy sources to ensure a sustainable energy future.
Suggestions
Louisiana has a significant opportunity to expand its low-carbon electricity generation, particularly through existing nuclear capacity and solar power development. The state can take cues from regions like France, which leads with nuclear energy generating 70% of its electricity, or South Carolina where nuclear accounts for 53%. Similarly, states like Nevada and California have demonstrated successful solar power development, generating 33% and 29% of their electricity from solar, respectively. By investing in these technologies, Louisiana can increase its low-carbon electricity generation, reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, and contribute positively to climate health and energy security.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Louisiana has seen fluctuations, especially in nuclear generation. Throughout the mid-2000s to the 2010s, nuclear energy production experienced significant ups and downs. Notably, 2011 and 2019 recorded notable declines of around 2 and 3.2 TWh respectively, highlighting the volatility of nuclear production. Nevertheless, the recent trend shows promising recovery, with 2020 recording an increase of 3 TWh and 2024 adding 2.4 TWh of nuclear energy. Although challenges have been faced, the potential growth in nuclear power, coupled with solar energy investment, can transform Louisiana's electricity landscape towards a greener, more resilient future.
