Sources of electricity in Massachusetts

Cape Cod’s power comes from the New England power grid. The grid consists of many different types of power facilities located across the region. Under normal market conditions, Massachusetts receives energy from a variety of sources. The chart illustrates the sources of electricity used in Massachusetts.

How much electricity do we use?

As the number of electrical appliances in homes and businesses has grown, so has the need for electricity.

• Since 1970, the usage of electricity in New England has doubled.
• Computers, new telecommunications devices and improved manufacturing equipment all use more electricity. Although the consumption from each individual device is small, in aggregate, they account for a dramatic increase in business electricity use.
• Population growth drives increased electrical usage.

By the end of the decade experts predict that New England will require 17% more electricity.

Although important, conservation by itself is not sufficient. Projects like Cape Wind will help meet this growing demand without consuming scarce natural resources or polluting our environment.