Utah Electricity Generation and Power Mix
The energy landscape of Utah is currently undergoing a significant transition. As the state balances its historical reliance on fossil fuels with a growing commitment to sustainable energy, the composition of its power grid is shifting toward a more diversified mix of resources.
In 2024, Utah maintained a total summer capacity of 10.3 GW (gigawatts) across its power plants, resulting in a net generation of 35,133 GWh (gigawatt-hours).
Key Facts
- Coal remains the largest energy source at 48.1% of the generation mix.
- Natural gas is the second-largest contributor, accounting for 30.8%.
- Solar energy has grown to represent 14.9% of the state's electricity.
- Coal's dominance has dropped significantly from 81% in 2013.
- Small-scale solar added an extra 1,105 GWh to the grid in 2025.
The 2025 Energy Generation Mix
As of 2025, Utah's electricity is produced through a variety of fuel sources. While traditional thermal power remains prevalent, there is a clear trend toward the integration of renewables.
Coal and natural gas continue to provide the bulk of the state's power. However, the reliance on coal has decreased steadily over the last decade, as it is gradually replaced by natural gas and renewable energy sources.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Breakdown of Power Sources
The distribution of energy generation is led by coal (48.1%) and natural gas (30.8%). Solar power follows at 14.9%, marking it as the primary renewable source. Other contributors include hydroelectric power (2.2%), wind (2.1%), and geothermal energy (1.3%). Smaller contributions come from biomass (0.2%), petroleum (0.1%), and other miscellaneous sources (0.4%).
| Energy Source | Percentage of Total | Number of Stations |
|---|---|---|
| Coal | 48.1% | 18,007 |
| Natural Gas | 30.8% | 11,523 |
| Solar | 14.9% | 5,565 |
| Hydroelectric | 2.2% | 828 |
| Wind | 2.1% | 799 |
| Geothermal | 1.3% | 468 |
| Biomass | 0.2% | 61 |
| Petroleum | 0.1% | 31 |
| Other | 0.4% | 160 |
Solar Energy Expansion
Solar power in Utah is divided between utility-scale plants and small-scale installations. Photovoltaic (PV) panels—technology that converts sunlight directly into electricity—are widely used in both sectors.
In 2025, small-scale solar, which includes customer-owned panels, contributed a net 1,105 GWh to the grid. While significant, this amount represents less than one-fifth of the energy generated by Utah's larger, utility-scale PV plants.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary source of electricity in Utah?
As of 2025, coal is the primary source of electricity in Utah, accounting for 48.1% of the state's generation mix.
How has Utah's reliance on coal changed since 2013?
Utah's reliance on coal has decreased significantly; it generated 81% of the state's electricity in 2013, compared to 48.1% in 2025.
What is the total summer capacity of Utah's power plants?
In 2024, Utah had a total summer capacity of 10.3 GW.
How much does small-scale solar contribute to the grid?
Small-scale solar, including customer-owned PV panels, delivered a net 1,105 GWh to the electricity grid in 2025.
Which renewable energy source is the most prominent in Utah?
Solar is the most prominent renewable energy source, contributing 14.9% to the total electricity generation mix.