Over the period from June 2024 to May 2025, electricity consumption in North Carolina has shown a significant reliance on both fossil and low-carbon energy sources. Fossil energy sources like gas and coal make up a significant portion of electricity generation, with gas accounting for nearly 39% and coal for more than 11%. Collectively, fossil fuels contribute over half of the total electricity generation. In contrast, low-carbon energy sources such as nuclear power, solar, hydropower, and biofuels play a vital role in reducing emissions and providing clean energy, with nuclear power alone contributing nearly a third of the electricity generated in the state. Solar and hydropower together contribute to more than 10% of the electricity supply. Overall, low-carbon sources, excluding imports, account for approximately 43% of the electricity, highlighting a critical area for potential growth in the state's energy strategy.
Is Electricity Growing in North Carolina?
Despite clean energy's significant presence, electricity consumption per person has decreased compared to past records in North Carolina, indicating a concerning trend. In 2025, the state's total electricity consumption stood at 13,078 kWh per person, which is notably lower than the peak figure recorded in 2004 of 15,584 kWh per person. This change reflects a reduction of 2,506 kWh per person. Similarly, the latest figures show a decline in low-carbon electricity generation, with 5,579 kWh per person produced—down from the previous record of 5,892 kWh per person in 2020. This reduction of 313 kWh per person in low-carbon energy reflects a need for policy initiatives and investments that can reinvigorate growth and increase the state's overall clean energy capacity to meet future needs, especially at a time when electrification of various sectors is crucial for sustainable development.
Suggestions
For North Carolina to significantly boost its low-carbon electricity generation, expansion of nuclear power is a strategic opportunity that cannot be overlooked due to its already substantial contribution. By learning from regions like France, where nuclear power contributes to about 69% of electricity generation, and South Carolina, where nuclear also plays a major role at 53%, North Carolina can expand its nuclear capabilities. Additionally, increasing solar energy, as demonstrated by states like Nevada and Lebanon with solar accounted at 29% and 31% respectively, would further diversify and stabilize the clean energy mix. Investment in these key areas will not only support the environmental goals by reducing reliance on fossil fuels, it will also serve as a catalyst for economic and technological development in the region.
History
Looking back at the history of low-carbon electricity in North Carolina, there have been notable developments, particularly from the late 2000s onwards. In 2009, both hydro and nuclear power saw a positive increase with 2.3 TWh and 1.1 TWh, respectively, although hydro experienced fluctuations shortly thereafter. In the mid-2010s, solar energy began a commendable ascent, particularly from 2016 to 2022, during which numerous annual increases built a valuable solar infrastructure. Nuclear power had moments of growth, especially notable in 2015 and 2024, indicating the potential for sustainable expansion. However, inconsistencies in nuclear's output, such as the decline in 2012, point to opportunities for reinforced commitment and strategic planning to ensure stable, long-term growth of clean infrastructure that adequately supports the state's energy needs while minimizing environmental impact. Overall, a consistent effort towards augmenting these technologies is essential for achieving a sustainable and prosperous energy future for North Carolina.