States With The Fastest Growing Renewable Energy Utilization

As the need for power increases in the coming years in light of new innovations such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy presents a unique opportunity. While many states such as California and Texas have already developed widespread renewable energy infrastructure, other states have more recently begun to transition. Let’s take a look at the states with the fastest growing renewable energy utilization and explore what is driving the transition.

Vermont

Vermont is at the top of our list with nearly 100% of the state’s energy originating from renewable sources. The state relies heavily on hydroelectric power generation, but also utilizes solar and wind energy. The state’s success implementing widespread renewable energy can be partially attributed to the state incentives for renewable energy development. These incentives include tax exemptions and low interest loans for those interested in residential or commercial development. On top of this, state-led initiatives dealing with water-saving, lighting, and weatherization standards have been implemented. Overall, Vermont is a model state when it comes to renewable energy infrastructure. Their continued push for widespread renewable energy utilization has allowed the state to almost entirely move away from traditional energy generation methods.

South Dakota

South Dakota has dramatically increased its reliance on renewable energy over the past decade. The state’s vast open areas and strong winds make it an ideal location for wind energy generation. As of 2023, wind energy accounts for around 30% of the state’s electricity generation. South Dakota also utilizes hydroelectric and solar energy generation. The investment in this infrastructure has allowed the state to source 84% of its electricity from renewable sources. The state’s swift transition to renewables has also dramatically decreased power sector emissions, which are now the fourth lowest in the country by state. Overall, South Dakota’s diverse renewable energy mix and widespread utilization has allowed the state to dramatically improve its clean energy generation, while also limiting emissions.

Maine

Maine has also made substantial progress in their renewable energy infrastructure. Similar to South Dakota, Maine relies heavily on wind energy, as 23% of the state’s renewable energy is sourced from it. The state also utilizes hydroelectric and solar energy.  In 2022, renewable resources provided 64% of Maine’s total electricity generation, leading the east coast alongside Vermont. The state’s successful transition towards renewables can be attributed to the various incentives and regulations surrounding clean energy. An example of this would be the state’s “Renewable Portfolio Standard”, in which a set percentage of Maine’s energy is required to be sourced from renewables. Alongside incentives such as property tax exemptions, the state has strategically and effectively promoted renewable energy integration. Overall Maine’s investments into renewable energy infrastructure has allowed the state to make substantial progress in its move away from fossil fuels and other traditional energy sources. As the state continues to build out its renewable energy infrastructure, clean energy growth and accessibility can be expected.

Idaho

Idaho is another state that has ramped up their renewable energy sourcing in the past few years. With vast access to hydroelectric and wind resources, the state is well positioned for a transition towards renewable energy. Hydroelectric power is the most utilized renewable energy source in Idaho, with around 60% of the state’s renewable energy being derived from it.  In 2023, Idaho sourced 68% of its electricity from renewable sources, positioning it in the top 5 states when it comes to the renewable energy utilization rate. The state’s commitment to clean energy sourcing has also helped to lower emissions, making it the second lowest state when it comes to power sector emissions.  Overall Idaho’s strategic use of resources for renewable energy sourcing positioned the state for continued growth and diversification in renewable energy.

As the need for renewable energy infrastructure and utilization continues to intensify, these states are leading the way. While they may not have the same volume of renewable energy generation when compared to larger states like California and Texas, their utilization rates are far more impressive. With states like Vermont relying almost entirely on renewables for their energy needs, the future of more widespread integration is imminent. These states have provided a good blueprint and can be seen as model states when it comes to improving renewable energy utilization.