Between September 2024 and August 2025, Missouri's electricity consumption predominantly relied on fossil fuels, making up a significant portion of the mix. More than half of the electricity came from fossil sources, with coal contributing close to 50% and gas accounting for a little over 10%. Net imports form almost a fifth of the electricity consumption, further diversifying the state's energy profile. In terms of clean electricity, these resources accounted for a bit less than 20% of total consumption. Nuclear energy, the largest component of the low-carbon category, delivered close to 9%, followed by wind at over 7%. Solar power provided around 2%, with utility-scale solar contributing over half of this share, while hydropower made up slightly over 1%.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Missouri?
Missouri's electricity consumption has seen notable changes over the years. In 2025, the per-person consumption stood at 13,913 kWh, which is approximately 1,870 kWh less than the previous high recorded in 2011. This indicates a contraction in overall electricity use, which may not align with the anticipated demand as electrification expands. Low-carbon electricity generation is following a similar trend. With 2,724 kWh per person produced in 2025, this is about 404 kWh below the previous year's numbers, suggesting that despite the potential and need, the growth in clean electricity generation is on a downward trajectory, which is concerning given the urgent necessity to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Missouri can look toward regions that have effectively leveraged clean technologies, particularly in solar and nuclear energy. States like Illinois and New Hampshire, which generate over 50% of their electricity from nuclear, serve as a beacon for Missouri to boost its nuclear capabilities. Insights can also be drawn from states like Nevada and California, where solar energy accounts for substantial shares, with up to a third of electricity generation. If Missouri can capitalize on the benefits of nuclear power and expand its solar infrastructure, it will not only reduce its carbon footprint but also pave the way for a sustainable, energy-secure future.
History
Examining Missouri's history of low-carbon electricity generation provides further insights. In the mid-2000s, growth in nuclear electricity was significant, with a notable increase in 2006 followed by more modest contributions through the early 2010s. Yet, these gains were often followed by substantial setbacks as seen in several years such as 2010, 2013, and 2016, where nuclear generation experienced abrupt drops. Despite some recovery down the line, including substantial gains in 2022, the recent decline in 2025 reinforces the need for stable investments in nuclear tech. Meanwhile, wind power showed promising growth, especially with a 3.2 TWh surge in 2021, suggesting potential for future clean energy strategies. Combined, these reflections highlight both the challenges and opportunities Missouri faces in forging a more sustainable electricity future.
