In Minnesota over the last twelve months, from April 2025 to March 2026, electricity consumption reveals an intriguing balance between low-carbon and fossil energy sources. Low-carbon electricity—which includes wind, nuclear, solar, biofuels, and hydropower—amounts to a substantial 46.68% of the total electricity generated, with significant contributions from wind at more than 20% and nuclear power at almost 18%. Solar, including both utility and non-utility, adds another 5%, while biofuels and hydropower contribute modestly. In contrast, fossil fuels—comprising coal and gas—make up about 37% of electricity generation, reflecting both the challenges and potential for reducing reliance on fossil sources. Notably, coal and gas are almost equally balanced, each providing nearly 19%. Furthermore, Minnesota imports about 16% of its electricity, indicating a significant reliance on external energy sources which may not always be low-carbon.

Is Electricity Growing in Minnesota?

Analyzing whether electricity usage is growing in Minnesota, recent data suggests a slight increase in overall electricity consumption, reaching 12,504 kWh per person, marginally surpassing the previous record in 2025. While this represents a tiny positive shift, it signals a continuing upward trend in electrical needs, driven by technological advancements and electrification. Conversely, low-carbon electricity generation has slightly decreased, with the latest figures showing a generation of 5,837 kWh per person, which is a decline of 87 kWh compared to the 2025 record. This decline in low-carbon output is concerning given the increasing demand for clean and sustainable power solutions to combat climate change and reduce air pollution.

Suggestions

To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Minnesota can explore expanding its nuclear and wind capacities, considering their already significant contributions to the state's energy mix. Learning from other regions that excel in these sectors could provide valuable insights. For instance, states like Iowa and South Dakota exemplify the successful utilization of wind, providing more than half of their electricity. Meanwhile, countries like France and Slovakia showcase the advantages of robust nuclear programs with around two-thirds of electricity coming from nuclear. Furthermore, incorporating more solar power can be inspired by states like Nevada which generates over 30% of its electricity from solar alone. By adopting similar strategies, Minnesota can enhance its clean energy portfolio, supporting environmental goals and ensuring energy independence.

History

In the last few years, Minnesota's history of low-carbon electricity generation has seen both growth and setbacks. The year 2024 marked modest advancements, with wind contributing an additional 0.4 TWh and hydro 0.1 TWh, though nuclear saw a small reduction. The following year, 2025, experienced significant progress with nuclear increasing by 1.4 TWh and wind by 0.6 TWh, highlighting a robust uptrend in clean energy capacity. Nevertheless, this momentum was disrupted in 2026, as wind and nuclear generation faced declines of 0.4 TWh and 0.3 TWh, respectively. On a positive note, hydropower saw a revival with a 0.2 TWh increase. To ensure continued growth in low-carbon electricity, it's imperative for Minnesota to address the challenges facing its nuclear and wind sectors promptly, while looking at innovative solutions that promote sustainable and reliable energy sources.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (Apr 2025 – Mar 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.