Montana's electricity consumption in 2024 reflects a mix of low-carbon and fossil energy sources. Among the clean energy sources, more than half of the state's electricity comes from low-carbon options, with hydropower contributing nearly one-third and wind energy making up over a fifth. Solar power, although present, contributes close to none. On the fossil front, coal remains the dominant source, accounting for almost 40% of electricity consumption, while natural gas and oil collectively make up less than 6%. The dominance of coal underlines the need for a transition towards more sustainable energy production methods.
Is Electricity Growing in Montana?
Electricity consumption in Montana presents a concerning picture, as current levels show a significant decrease from the peak seen in 2008. The latest figures are 23,183 kWh per person, marking a drop of over 7,000 kWh per person compared to the record set more than a decade ago. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation has decreased since its highest point in 2011, with current levels at 13,064 kWh per person, falling by over 800 kWh. This decline in electricity consumption and particularly the reduction in low-carbon generation highlight a need for strategic planning to revitalize the electricity sector and accelerate the shift to cleaner energy options.
Suggestions
Montana can increase its low-carbon electricity generation by expanding its wind power capacity, which already plays a significant role in the state's energy profile. To further diversify and strengthen its clean energy portfolio, Montana could also look to other regions for inspiration on solar and nuclear power. Iowa and South Dakota serve as excellent examples of successful wind power implementation in the United States, achieving significant shares of electricity from this source. Additionally, looking to places like France and New Hampshire for nuclear energy success stories would add a robust and stable component to Montana's green energy mix. By integrating solar and nuclear energies, Montana could significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels and bolster its clean energy generation.
History
Historically, Montana's low-carbon electricity generation has experienced fluctuations, primarily driven by changes in hydropower output. In the mid-2000s, hydropower experienced notable growth, with increments of 0.7 TWh and 0.5 TWh in 2005 and 2006, respectively, although there were declines like the 0.8 TWh decrease in 2007. A pivotal year was 2011, when Montana saw a substantial hydropower increase of 3.2 TWh, only to be followed by a significant decline in the subsequent years. More recently, wind power has seen a steady ascent since 2020, with a notable 1.3 TWh increase in 2024, indicating a positive trend towards enhancing wind energy generation. Montana's continuous diversification and strengthening of its clean electricity sources are crucial for a sustainable energy future.