In 2025, electricity consumption in North Dakota remains significantly dependent on fossil fuels, which account for about 58% of the electricity mix, with coal alone comprising more than half of the state's generation at approximately 53%. Meanwhile, low-carbon energy sources make up around 41%, notably driven by wind power contributing over a third of the total, and hydropower adding about 5%. This substantial reliance on fossil fuel presents challenges for reducing the environmental impact, emphasizing the need for further transitions towards clean energy in the state.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in North Dakota?
Recent data indicates a slight decline in total electricity consumption in North Dakota, from a previous record of about 53,429 kWh per person in 2024 to 53,093 kWh per person in 2025. That's a decrease of about 337 kWh per person, signaling a concerning trend for future growth, especially given the need to meet rising demands from electrification and technological advancements. However, within this context, there's positive news for low-carbon electricity generation which grew by 891 kWh per person from the previous year, showcasing a welcome change and reflecting North Dakota's potential for shifting towards cleaner energy forms.
Suggestions
To further increase low-carbon electricity generation, North Dakota can significantly expand its existing wind capacity, already a major contributor to its green energy portfolio. Additionally, looking to successful regions for inspiration, North Dakota could benefit from bolstering its clean energy credentials by embracing nuclear and solar power. For example, South Dakota and Iowa have achieved impressive results with wind energy, each generating 58% of their electricity from wind, while states like Illinois and New Hampshire demonstrate how nuclear power can provide a substantial part of the clean energy mix with around 50% and 55%, respectively. Emulating these successes could help North Dakota make substantial progress in its transition toward more sustainable electricity generation.
History
In examining the history of low-carbon electricity generation in North Dakota, recent years have shown a consistent, albeit modest, upward trajectory, particularly for wind energy. In 2024, wind energy recorded an increase of 0.3 TWh, and this growth continued into 2025 with an additional 0.6 TWh. Hydropower experienced a minor decline of -0.1 TWh in 2024 but rebounded slightly in 2025 with an increase of 0.1 TWh. This pattern of steady but cautious growth in low-carbon energy forms holds promise for North Dakota, showing potential pathways to strengthen its clean energy capabilities and thus reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
