Over the April 2025 to March 2026 period, North Dakota witnessed electricity consumption patterns that leaned heavily on fossil fuels, with more than half of the electricity generated coming from fossil energy sources like coal and gas. Coal stood out as the dominant source within this category, contributing just over half of the total electricity output. On the positive side, clean energy made a notable contribution by accounting for almost two-fifths of the electricity produced, with wind energy being the most significant low-carbon source, responsible for just over a third of the total electricity supply. Despite this commendable share of clean energy, the small contribution of hydropower indicates potential room for growth in overall low-carbon energy generation.

Is Electricity Growing in North Dakota?

Electrification growth in North Dakota seems to have stagnated, with recent consumption figures showing a slight decrease compared to historical records. The total electricity consumption reached just over 53,000 kWh per person in 2026, trailing behind the 2024 peak by 388 kWh per person. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation saw a small decline from the 2025 record, decreasing by 37 kWh per person. These figures suggest that without encouraging more growth in clean energy production, especially given the transition to electrification and the rising importance of AI technology, North Dakota may struggle to meet future energy demands.

Suggestions

To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, North Dakota could expand its existing wind energy capacity given its current strong performance. Drawing lessons from regions with successful integration of clean energy, the state could consider implementing nuclear power similar to what successful states like Illinois have achieved with half of their electricity coming from nuclear sources. Furthermore, embracing solar energy like states such as Nevada and California, known for their high percentages of solar-generated electricity, could diversify the low-carbon energy mix. By learning from these exemplary regions, North Dakota can enhance its clean energy portfolio and ensure sustainable electricity growth.

History

Historically, North Dakota has seen some fluctuation in its low-carbon electricity generation. In the last few years, wind energy has recorded some variability, with significant growth noted in 2024 and 2025, improving by 0.3 and 0.6 TWh respectively. However, in 2026, there was a slight decrease of 0.3 TWh in wind energy generation. On the other hand, hydroelectric power saw a minor reduction in 2024, but it rebounded with incremental increases of 0.1 and 0.2 TWh in 2025 and 2026 respectively. This history indicates that there has been some progress in expanding sustainable energy sources, but it underscores the need for a more stable and aggressive approach to growing low-carbon energy production further, particularly through solar and nuclear advancements.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

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