In 2025, New York's electricity consumption showcases a notable shift towards low-carbon generation, with over 44% derived from clean sources. Nuclear power contributes significantly to this mix, delivering nearly 18% of the state's electricity, while hydropower accounts for around 16%, and wind and solar offer more modest portions of just over 4% and 6%, respectively. Meanwhile, fossil energy still powers roughly 39% of New York's electricity needs, with natural gas being the primary fossil source. The ongoing transition toward low-carbon energy evidences a commitment to reducing the environmental impact of electricity production.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in New York?
Electricity consumption in New York is clearly on an upward trend. The latest statistics for 2025 show an increase in total electricity usage to 8,248 kWh per person, a noticeable rise from the record set in 2024, marking an increase of 436 kWh per person. Low-carbon electricity generation, specifically, has also seen growth, rising to 3,685 kWh per person from 3,517 kWh per person in the previous year. This advancement reflects a significant investment in clean energy infrastructure, crucial to addressing the climate crisis and air pollution linked with fossil fuels.
Suggestions
New York is well-positioned to further increase its low-carbon electricity generation by expanding its existing nuclear infrastructure, already a substantial component of its energy portfolio. Learning from regions like France, which generates a sweeping 67% of its electricity from nuclear power, New York could continue to bolster its nuclear capabilities. The state should also look to California, where solar energy comprises 31% of their electricity generation, to further harness solar potential effectively. By emulating these successful strategies, New York can substantially enhance its clean energy output, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and advancing toward a more sustainable energy future.
History
Since the early 2020s, New York has experienced fluctuations in its low-carbon electricity generation. Over these years, nuclear energy saw a decrease of 0.5 TWh in 2024 but rebounded with a 1.3 TWh increase in 2025, indicating positive momentum. Onshore wind also expanded in these years, marking an improvement of 1.2 TWh in 2024 and an additional 0.9 TWh in 2025. In contrast, hydroelectric power witnessed reductions in both years, with a decrease of 0.5 TWh in 2024 and a larger 2.2 TWh decline in 2025. Despite setbacks, the upward trends in wind and nuclear energy paint an optimistic picture for the future of low-carbon electricity in New York.
