Over the period from June 2024 to May 2025, Virginia's electricity consumption has been characterized by a significant reliance on fossil fuels, with almost half of the electricity generated, approximately 43%, coming from fossil sources. Natural gas, representing just over 40%, constitutes the bulk of this category, while coal accounts for a small portion at around 1.5%. Net imports, making up almost a third of all electricity, play a significant role as well. On the cleaner side of the equation, low-carbon energy sources contribute over 28% to the state's electricity, with nuclear energy providing a solid 21%. Solar energy accounts for a smaller share of about 5.5%, and biofuels add another 2% to the mix. These numbers reveal that while low-carbon sources are present, they still have room to grow to achieve a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy landscape.
Is Electricity Growing in Virginia?
Looking at the recent trends, electricity consumption in Virginia has seen an upward shift, setting a new record in 2025 at 16,601 kWh per person, which is 400 kWh higher than the previous record in 2024. This growth reflects a positive trajectory for meeting increasing electricity demand driven by modernization and electrification. Additionally, low-carbon electricity generation has made encouraging progress, with 4,713 kWh per person recorded in 2025, surpassing the previous year's record by 245 kWh. This growth in low-carbon generation is a step forward in reducing Virginia's carbon footprint and aligning with sustainable energy goals.
Suggestions
To further enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Virginia could benefit from expanding its existing nuclear capacity, a move that has proven successful in countries like France and states such as South Carolina, where nuclear energy accounts for a significant portion of electricity. Drawing inspiration from regions with robust solar energy development, such as Lebanon and Nevada, Virginia should also seek to increase its solar output. Moreover, regions like New Hampshire and Illinois demonstrate the potential for larger-scale nuclear deployment. Combining the lessons from these regions, Virginia can strengthen its clean electricity profile, fostering a sustainable and resilient energy system that aligns with future demands.
History
Historically, Virginia's journey with low-carbon electricity has been marked by fluctuations, particularly in the nuclear sector. The early 2010s saw notable increases and declines, with a significant reduction in nuclear generation in 2010, and gradual recoveries in 2012 and subsequent years. The introduction and growth of solar energy became significant in 2021, with notable expansions persisting through 2025. The recent positive developments in solar, paired with modest nuclear increases in the past few years, reflect an ongoing commitment to enhancing clean electricity sources. This historical context underscores the importance of consistency and growth in low-carbon energy, pointing to the future opportunity for Virginia to leverage solar and nuclear advancements as part of a robust electricity strategy.