From June 2024 to May 2025, Michigan's electricity consumption reveals a heavy dependency on fossil fuels, with them contributing almost two-thirds of the electricity. Gas, as the dominant fossil fuel, accounts for around 40%, while coal stands at about a quarter, and oil hardly makes a dent with just over 1%. On the bright side, low-carbon energy sources contribute to about a third of the state's electricity mix. Notably, nuclear power emerges as a significant contributor amongst low-carbon sources, providing over 22%. Wind energy also plays a promising role at about 8%, while solar and biofuels collectively add just over 3%, showing room for expansion in the clean energy sector.
Is Electricity Growing in Michigan?
Electricity consumption in Michigan is on the rise, marking a growth trajectory with personal consumption estimates for 2025 reaching 12,616 kWh, which surpasses the previous record set in 2024 by 317 kWh per person. Despite this positive trend in overall consumption, low-carbon electricity generation appears to have declined, with recent figures showing a drop to 4,287 kWh per person from a previous high of 4,527 kWh per person in 2021. This downtrend is concerning and highlights the pressing need for the state to actively enhance its clean energy capabilities to align with the overall increase in electricity demand and ecological goals.
Suggestions
To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Michigan could focus on expanding its nuclear capabilities, an area where successful states like Illinois and South Carolina have demonstrated significant production levels. Similarly, Michigan could look to Iowa and South Dakota as examples for substantial wind energy generation, expanding this sector alongside nuclear. Increasing solar capacity offers another viable path, as seen in regions like Nevada and California which have achieved substantial solar generation outputs. By adopting these approaches, Michigan can enhance its contribution to a sustainable environment while supporting economic and infrastructural growth through expanded clean energy resources.
History
Over the years, Michigan's journey with low-carbon electricity, particularly nuclear power, has seen a series of fluctuations. The early 2000s witnessed a rise and fall in nuclear generation, with a notable increase in 2005 followed by a decline in 2006. The late 2000s were marked by another significant fall in 2009 which was counteracted by a rise in 2010 and 2011. Throughout the 2010s, the trend of ups and downs continued, showcasing the potential yet inconsistent growth. However, recent years have witnessed efforts of stabilization and growth with a modest increase in 2023 and 2025, punctuated by contributions from wind energy since 2013. This history underscores the importance of strategic investments and consistent support to maximize the potential of Michigan’s low-carbon electricity generation capabilities.