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Kentucky’s energy future will likely include a mix of:

  • Coal

  • Natural gas

  • Solar energy

  • Energy efficiency

  • Emerging energy technologies

Black ranch rail fencing runs along a rolling green field leading to a horse barn.

The challenge for Kentucky is balancing affordable energy, reliable electricity, economic opportunity, and environmental impacts while supporting communities that have long depended on coal.

Keep reading below to learn more about Kentucky’s current major energy sources.

A coal factory releases fumes in the middle of a green field.

Major KY Energy Sources

Coal

Coal in KY Today

Explore other helpful links:

Kentucky Coal Facts

Kentucky’s Energy Transition Away From Coal

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Biomass

Biomass in Kentucky Today

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Wood Energy Topics

Recommendations for the Harvesting of Woody Biomass

A Geothermal energy plant operating on a rocky landscape.

Geothermal

Geothermal in Kentucky Today

Explore other helpful links:

Geothermal Heat Pump Case Study

Geothermal Basics

A hydroelectric dam built in a green, mountainous valley.

Hydropower

Hydropower in Kentucky Today

Explore other helpful links:

Lewis Ridge Hydropower Project

Hydropower Basics

A natural gas plant with multiple yellow gas pipes.

Natural Gas

Natural Gas in KY Today

Explore other helpful links:

Natural Gas Explained

Kentucky Conservation Committee: Natural Gas & Oil

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Nuclear

Nuclear in Kentucky Today

Explore other helpful links:

Advantages and Challenges of Nuclear Energy

Will Kentucky’s transition to Low-Carbon Energy include Nuclear?

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Biofuels & Petroleum

Biofuels & Petroleum in Kentucky Today

Explore other helpful links:

Division of Oil and Gas

Oil and Petroleum Products Explained

Three windmills in a green field.

Wind

Wind in Kentucky Today

Explore other helpful links:

Wind Energy in Kentucky 101

Wind Energy Basics

Rows of solar panels in a green field.

Solar

Solar in KY Today

Explore other helpful links:

A Homeowners Guide to Rooftop Solar Panels

How Solar Energy Works