Over the past twelve months, from September 2024 to August 2025, Massachusetts has experienced significant reliance on electricity imports, with over half of its electricity (56.22%) coming from net imports. Fossil energy sources, primarily gas, make up nearly a third, with gas alone accounting for 28.46% and other fossil forms contributing to 29.11%. In contrast, low-carbon energy sources, while lagging behind fossil fuels, contribute notable portions: solar energy, both behind-the-meter (BTM) and utility-generated, accounts for almost 11% combined, with BTM solar slightly stronger at nearly 7%. Biofuels, categorized under low-carbon, add roughly 1.5%, indicating a clear potential for increased clean electricity generation. This balance reflects an opportunity to offset reliance on imports and fossil fuels by further embracing green energy solutions.

Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →

Is Electricity Growing in Massachusetts?

Although Massachusetts boasts an electricity consumption of 8389 kWh per person in 2025, this represents a considerable decline of 1572 kWh from its 2005 peak of 9961 kWh per person. The outlook for low-carbon electricity generation specifically mirrors this trend of contraction, with current output at 1108 kWh per person, down by 281 kWh since the 2018 record of 1389 kWh. This stagnation is a concerning development amidst increasing global and local demands for reduced emissions and sustainable practices in electricity usage. Ensuring growth in the low-carbon sector is essential to both meeting future energy demands and reducing negative environmental impacts associated with fossil fuel consumption.

Suggestions

To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Massachusetts could expand its solar capabilities given its existing foundation in this sector. Drawing lessons from other successful regions, Massachusetts might explore more substantial investments in nuclear and solar technologies. For instance, neighboring states like New Hampshire and New Jersey derive a significant portion of their electricity from nuclear energy, at 54% and 33% respectively, showcasing a strong model for successful nuclear adoption. Internationally, countries such as France and Slovakia demonstrate how nuclear can dominate clean energy portfolios, while nearby Nevada and California show leadership in solar with 33% and 29%, respectively. These examples illustrate the potent impact of substantial investment in both solar and nuclear, promising models to emulate for Massachusetts in striving to increase its share of low-carbon electricity and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

History

Looking back at the history of low-carbon electricity in Massachusetts, the records reveal fluctuating progress particularly concerning nuclear energy. Over the early 2000s, Massachusetts saw nuclear energy figures decrease by varied increments, notably in 2005, 2009, 2011, and again in 2019 with more pronounced decreases, impacting the overall clean energy landscape negatively. While some years like 2006, 2008, 2010, and 2014 experienced recovery, they did not suffice to create a sustained upward trajectory. Moreover, hydroelectricity also faced downturns, notably in 2007 and more recently in 2024. These trends indicate an urgent need for renewed, resilient strategies in bolstering the state’s low-carbon energy generation through robust investments and policy support in proven technologies like solar and nuclear. This approach is critical to ensuring Massachusetts meets future electricity demands in a sustainable manner.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade