Over the past twelve months, from September 2024 to August 2025, Alaska's electricity consumption has been substantial, with fossil fuels dominating the mix. More than half of the electricity, approximately 66%, was generated from fossil sources, including 40% from gas, 14% from oil, and about 12% from coal. Meanwhile, clean energy sources accounted for about 31% of the electricity consumption, with hydropower making up the majority of this at 28%, and close to none coming from wind at 1.75%. The data highlights a significant reliance on fossil fuels, underscoring an opportunity for Alaska to enhance its green energy generation.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Alaska?
When considering electricity growth in Alaska, the latest data shows a decline compared to past records. In 2025, the average electricity consumption was 8961 kWh per person, which is a decrease of 1068 kWh per person from the previous record set in 2007. Despite this overall reduction, there is a positive development in the clean energy sector. The latest consumption of low-carbon electricity is 2782 kWh per person, which is an increase of 138 kWh per person from the previously recorded high in 2020. This trend towards more sustainable energy use is encouraging, though the overall dip in electricity usage is worrying and suggests a need to stimulate growth in clean electricity generation.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Alaska can draw valuable lessons from other regions. States like Iowa, with 60% of their electricity from wind, and countries like France, relying on nuclear power for 70% of their electricity, illustrate how focusing on specific clean technologies can yield substantial results. Investing in wind energy, similar to what South Dakota achieves with over half of its electricity from wind, seems particularly relevant given Alaska's expansive open spaces. Additionally, replicating the nuclear advancements seen in states like Illinois, which generates more than 50% of its electricity from nuclear power, could significantly bolster Alaska's energy profile. Complementing wind and nuclear, exploring solar power opportunities, as seen in Nevada with 33% solar contribution, could further solidify Alaska's commitment to clean energy and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.
History
Historically, Alaska has seen a fluctuating yet overall modest increase in its low-carbon electricity generation, primarily from hydropower. In the early 2000s, hydroelectricity showed minor ups and downs, including small declines and gains throughout 2005 to 2025. Over the past two decades, Alaska has maintained a relatively stable but low level of wind and biofuel generation, with notable growth occurring only in wind energy beginning in 2013 with a modest 0.1 TWh increase. The low-carbon electricity sector's growth has been modest, and there remains significant potential to build on this foundation through more robust investments in nuclear and solar power. Enhancing these sectors will be crucial for Alaska to ensure a sustainable energy future.
