In 2025, electricity consumption in Alaska is heavily dependent on fossil fuels, which account for almost two-thirds of the total consumption. Gas makes up the largest portion of fossil energy, contributing more than a third on its own, while oil and coal combined make up a significant portion of the rest. On the other hand, low-carbon energy sources contribute less than a third of the electricity consumed, with hydropower being the most significant at more than a quarter. Wind energy represents almost none of the electricity supply, while net imports are negligible at slightly under 4%. The high reliance on fossil fuels raises concerns about climate change and air pollution, highlighting the need for an increased focus on cleaner energy sources.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Alaska?
Despite a minor decline in overall electricity consumption, dropping from a record 9146 kWh per person in 2023 to 9077 kWh per person in 2025, Alaska shows progress in low-carbon electricity generation. The latest data indicates an increase in low-carbon electricity to 2774 kWh per person in 2025 compared to 2637 kWh per person in 2023. While the overall electricity consumption has decreased slightly, the encouraging rise in low-carbon energy generation may suggest an ongoing transition towards cleaner sources. However, the stagnation in total electricity consumption could hinder efforts to meet the burgeoning demand driven by electrification and advancements in technology systems like AI.
Suggestions
To amplify low-carbon electricity generation further, Alaska can look towards regions that have successfully integrated sustainable and clean energy sources into their energy mix. For example, France and Slovakia achieve more than half of their electricity from nuclear power, demonstrating its potential to significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels. On the other hand, countries like Denmark and states like Iowa have tapped extensively into wind power, demonstrating its viability in addressing clean energy goals. While solar energy has less prominence in wind-rich areas, states like Nevada have managed to generate over a third of their electricity from solar. Combining strategies from these regions, Alaska could bolster its clean energy generation by investing in nuclear and solar technologies alongside continuing wind energy development.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Alaska reflects small but noteworthy changes in recent years. In 2024, there was a slight decrease in hydroelectric generation, but this was offset by a small increase in 2025. Wind energy and biofuels saw no changes in these years, indicating stagnation in those sectors. The marginal changes and relative stagnation in low-carbon electricity growth in recent years underscore the pressing need for ambitious expansion in green energy sources, particularly nuclear and solar. Alaska stands to benefit significantly by learning from regions that have successfully increased their low-carbon electricity generation through diversified approaches, making it vital for the state to accelerate investments in these areas.
