In 2024, Maryland's electricity consumption is characterized by a significant reliance on imported electricity, accounting for more than 40% of the total. Low-carbon energy sources, which include nuclear, hydropower, and solar, collectively supply nearly 30% of the state's electricity needs. Nuclear power is the largest contributor within the low-carbon category, providing close to a quarter of the state's electricity, while hydropower and solar contribute a smaller proportion. Fossil fuels, predominantly gas, provide just over a quarter of the electricity, with coal supplying only a small fraction. This diverse energy mix highlights Maryland's ongoing challenge in balancing energy imports, fossil fuel use, and clean energy growth.
Is Electricity Growing in Maryland?
When examining the trend of electricity consumption in Maryland, it becomes evident that there has been a decline. The 2024 per capita electricity consumption is approximately 9,883 kWh, which marks a reduction of close to 3,000 kWh from its peak of 12,868 kWh per person back in 2005. Low-carbon electricity generation has also seen a decrease, with the current figure at 2,974 kWh per person, down by 221 from the 2018 record. This decline is concerning, considering the need for increased electricity to support electrification and technological advancements, such as AI, while still pursuing sustainability.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Maryland can look to expand existing nuclear facilities, as they already play a significant role in the state's energy portfolio. Maryland can learn from successful regions such as France and Slovakia, where nuclear energy provides the majority of electricity. Moreover, exploring the potential of solar energy by observing states like Nevada, where solar contributes significantly to electricity generation, could be beneficial. By combining the expansion of nuclear power with the adoption of successful solar strategies, Maryland can increase its share of low-carbon electricity and support a sustainable energy future.
History
Historically, Maryland's low-carbon electricity generation has seen several shifts, particularly in the nuclear sector. In recent decades, there were periods of fluctuation, such as in the late 2000s, where nuclear generation experienced both minor increments and significant declines, notably in 2006 and 2012. Hydropower has also seen fluctuations, with sporadic gains and losses across various years. These inconsistencies reflect challenges in building a stable and robust low-carbon energy supply. The emphasis should now be on ensuring a consistent and upward trajectory to meet increased future demand and mitigate the environmental impacts associated with fossil fuel consumption, emphasizing the role of nuclear and solar as key contributors to Maryland's energy stability and sustainability.