In Nebraska in 2025, electricity consumption shows a dynamic interplay between low-carbon and fossil energy sources. Low-carbon energy accounts for just over half of the state's electricity usage, with wind power leading this segment by contributing more than a quarter of the total electricity. Following wind, nuclear power provides a substantial portion, making up almost 17% of the electricity generation, complemented by hydropower, which adds another 3%. On the other hand, fossil energy is nearly matching low-carbon generation, representing almost half of the electricity consumed in Nebraska. Coal is the predominant fossil fuel, responsible for more than 44% of the electricity, while natural gas plays a minor role, contributing just over 3%. Additionally, Nebraska imports close to 2.5% of its electricity from outside the state.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Nebraska?
Electricity consumption in Nebraska is experiencing growth, as evidenced by the increase in total electricity consumption to 20,524 kWh per person in 2025 compared to the previous high of 19,868 kWh per person in 2023. This is an overall rise of 655 kWh per person. However, contrasting with the growth in total consumption, low-carbon electricity generation has slightly decreased, with the latest figure at 10,087 kWh per person, compared to the past record of 10,128 kWh per person in 2023, marking a minor decline of 41 kWh per person. This stagnation in low-carbon electricity generation is concerning and calls for strategic investments to expand Nebraska's clean energy capacity to keep pace with increasing demand and the ongoing electrification transition.
Suggestions
For Nebraska to bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, expanding its existing nuclear and wind power capabilities is a promising approach. With wind already contributing substantially, Nebraska can look to successful wind power models seen in states like Iowa and South Dakota, where wind energy makes up nearly 60% of electricity generation. Nuclear power also presents significant potential; Nebraska can draw inspiration from countries such as France and states like New Hampshire and South Carolina, where nuclear energy accounts for more than half of the electricity generation mix. Moreover, exploring solar energy as a viable addition could benefit Nebraska, as evidenced by the successful solar integrations in regions like Nevada and California. By embracing these proven strategies in wind, nuclear, and solar energy, Nebraska can significantly boost its low-carbon electricity output, aligning with a sustainable and environmentally conscious future.
History
Historically, the change in low-carbon electricity generation in Nebraska has seen fluctuations, particularly in the last few years. In 2024, there was a notable reduction in nuclear electricity generation by 0.8 TWh, while wind and hydropower generation remained unchanged. However, by 2025, nuclear power saw a rebound with an increase of 0.8 TWh, even as wind power slightly dipped by 0.2 TWh. Steady contributions from hydropower and biofuels over this period have provided consistency, but the pressing need is clearly to expand capacity in more scalable and impactful areas such as nuclear and wind energy to ensure sustained clean electricity growth. Intensifying efforts in these domains will help counteract any downturn and bolster Nebraska's clean energy profile for the future.
