In 2025, electricity consumption in Minnesota is predominantly dependent on low-carbon sources, which account for almost half of the total energy mix. Clean energy, including wind, nuclear, and solar power, plays a significant role. Wind energy alone contributes a fifth to the state’s electricity generation, while nuclear power adds nearly the same amount. On the other end, the fossil fuel category, which includes coal and gas, is marginally lower than the low-carbon figure, supplying more than a third of the state’s electricity. Coal and gas are evenly matched, providing just shy of a fifth each. Combining low-carbon imports and the lesser utilized biofuels and hydropower, the state showcases a vibrant blend of energy sources, with a significant lean towards cleaner options.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Minnesota?
Minnesota's electricity consumption is demonstrating gradual growth. The total electricity used in 2025 is a record high, reaching 12,499 kWh per person, which is a modest increase of 82 kWh per person from the 2023 figures. This upward trend in consumption aligns with a noteworthy increase in low-carbon electricity output, which has seen a substantial surge by 513 kWh per person compared to its 2024 record. These progressive steps are promising, as they highlight both the growing demand for electricity and an encouraging shift towards low-carbon solutions. However, given the pressing global transition to cleaner energy, any stagnation here would be concerning, indicating a need for further commitment to expand sustainable resources.
Suggestions
To facilitate the future growth of low-carbon electricity in Minnesota, an ideal strategy would focus on expanding the already substantial nuclear and wind portfolios. By looking at regions with exemplary low-carbon achievements, Minnesota can draw valuable insights. Countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear power contributes to more than two-thirds of their electricity, demonstrate the potential of nuclear expansion. Similarly, the wind energy success of states like Iowa and South Dakota, which harness nearly 60% of their electricity from the wind, could inform Minnesota's strategy. Additionally, leveraging lessons from California's successful deployment of solar energy at 31% could guide targeted investments in solar capacity. These successful examples from both nuclear and solar sectors exemplify paths toward a more sustainable and self-reliant energy future for Minnesota.
History
Historically, Minnesota's journey toward low-carbon electricity has shown varied progress. In recent years, particularly in 2025, there was a significant increase in nuclear generation by 1.4 TWh and wind generation by 0.6 TWh. These gains underscore commitment and successful endeavors in expanding clean electricity. However, in 2024, nuclear generation experienced a minor setback with a decrease of 0.1 TWh, which is concerning given the global emphasis on sustainable energy solutions. Positively, 2024 also saw small increments in wind and hydroelectric power by 0.4 TWh and 0.1 TWh respectively, which indicate steps in the right direction. The fluctuating but gradually growing landscape reflects a trajectory that Minnesota must strengthen with consistent gains, particularly in nuclear and other clean energy avenues.
