SALT LAKE CITY — Utah remains committed to supporting responsible energy development. A comprehensive analysis from the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute and Utah Geological Survey highlights the significant evolution in Utah’s energy sector in 2025 and provides insights into future trends. The research emphasizes ongoing efforts as Utah faces significant pressure for more energy to meet projected demand and as the state transitions toward new energy sources.
“Utah’s energy landscape has experienced a significant evolution in the past decade as market demands change and priorities shift,” said Michael Vanden Berg, Energy and Minerals Program Manager at the Utah Geological Survey. “Understanding the data behind this evolution will help prepare Utah for future changes.”
Key findings from the research include the following:
Net Energy Exporter – After being a net energy importer from 2020 to 2023, Utah flipped back to a net energy exporter in 2024 and further expanded this designation in 2025.
Record-High Oil Production – Utah’s total crude oil production for 2025 reached a record high of 67.9 million barrels, with 93% of this production coming from the Uinta Basin.
Record-High Petroleum Consumption – Utah’s total use of petroleum products (e.g., motor gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, etc.) reached a new record high of 63.0 million barrels (2.6 billion gallons) in 2025, according to preliminary estimates.
Natural Gas Production Expanding – Natural gas production in Utah increased for the fourth straight year, after experiencing significant declines from 2012 to 2021.
Coal Operation Consolidation – One company, Wolverine Fuels, now owns all active Utah coal mines. Demand for coal at Utah power plants increased 8% in 2025 but will drop in 2026 as the Intermountain Power Plant idled its coal units and the Sunnyside plant has shut down due to a turbine failure.
Record-High Electricity Consumption – Initial estimates indicate electricity consumption increased 1.1% in 2025, to a new record high of 35,075 GWh.
Low-Cost Electricity – According to preliminary 2025 data, Utah benefits from the seventh-cheapest residential electricity price in the nation—30% lower than the national average.
Utility-Scale Solar Growth – Total utility-scale solar capacity increased to 3.2 GW and solar now accounts for 15% of Utah’s total electric generation.
The full research brief is now available online.
ABOUT THE KEM C. GARDNER POLICY INSTITUTE
The Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute serves Utah by preparing economic, demographic, and public policy research that helps the state prosper. We are Utah’s demographic experts, leaders on the Utah economy, and specialists on public policy and community research. We are an honest broker of INFORMED RESEARCH, which guides INFORMED DISCUSSIONS, and leads to INFORMED DECISIONS™. For more information, please visit gardner.utah.edu or call 801-587-3717.
ABOUT THE UTAH GEOLOGICAL SURVEY
The Utah Geological Survey (UGS), a division of the Utah Department of Natural Resources, provides timely scientific information regarding the state’s geologic environment, resources, and hazards. As Utah’s premier source for geologic data, the agency oversees programs covering areas such as energy and minerals, geologic hazards, mapping, paleontology, and groundwater and wetlands. Through its objective research and public outreach, the UGS empowers state agencies, policymakers, industry professionals, and the public to make informed decisions regarding Utah’s natural resources.
ABOUT THE DAVID ECCLES SCHOOL OF BUSINESS
Founded in 1917, the David Eccles School of Business at the University of Utah is dedicated to driving student success through academic rigor, immersive real-world learning, and strong career outcomes. Located in one of the nation’s most dynamic regions for business and entrepreneurship, the school is shaped by a distinctive Mountain West ethos of growth, grit, and ambition. At the Eccles School, students don’t just earn a degree or learn business — they live it. Through a rigorous, integrated curriculum led by renowned faculty and hands-on experiences that translate knowledge into practice, graduates develop strong business fundamentals, durable skills, mindset, and confidence to lead with integrity and create impact across industries and communities. The school’s centers and institutes serve as a bridge between academics and the business community, connecting students to real-world opportunities while advancing applied research and partnerships that contribute to business and society. Learn more at eccles.utah.edu.