As of 2025, North Dakota's electricity consumption reflects a significant reliance on both fossil fuels and low-carbon sources. Fossil energy comprises a little more than half of the state's electricity generation, with coal being the dominant source in this category, producing about 53% of the total electricity. Clean energy, however, accounts for just over 40% of electricity consumption. Wind energy makes a substantial contribution to low-carbon electricity, accounting for almost 36%, while hydropower contributes a smaller portion, around 5%. Gas as an additional fossil source contributes around 5% as well. This diverse energy mix highlights the state's ongoing transition toward low-carbon resources, potentially steering towards a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly energy profile.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in North Dakota?
Despite these efforts, North Dakota is currently experiencing a slight decline in overall electricity consumption. The total electricity usage per person has decreased to approximately 53,093 kWh in 2025, which is a reduction of 337 kWh per person compared to the record high of 2024. Nevertheless, there is a positive aspect to note: low-carbon electricity generation has reached a new peak, with an increase of 891 kWh per person from the previous year's figures. This signifies an encouraging trend toward clean energy adoption, even as total consumption has seen a minor downturn. The growing low-carbon share underscores the potential for a cleaner energy future, but it also highlights the necessity for strategies to bolster overall electricity consumption to meet future demand.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, North Dakota can tap into its existing strengths in wind energy and look towards expanding this sector. Additionally, examining successful models from other regions can offer valuable insights. For instance, Denmark and Iowa have capitalized significantly on wind energy, with contributions of 60% and 58% respectively. Likewise, embracing the potential of nuclear energy, as demonstrated by states like Illinois and South Carolina, which derive approximately half of their electricity from nuclear power, could diversify and stabilize North Dakota's electricity supply. Solar energy, too, holds promise as evidenced by regions such as Nevada and California, showcasing the viability of solar power contributing a significant share of their electricity. By looking at these examples, North Dakota can formulate a robust approach to amplify its green energy capabilities.
History
The expansion of low-carbon electricity in North Dakota has a promising trajectory based on historical data. In recent years, there has been a consistent upward trend in wind energy, with additional generation witnessed in both 2024 and 2025. Hydropower, while moderate in its contribution, rebounded with a slight increase in 2025 following a diminutive decline the previous year. These developments in the past couple of years reflect incremental progress toward a cleaner energy landscape. Continued focus on scaling wind and other low-carbon options, such as solar and nuclear, can ensure robust and sustainable electricity generation for the state, enhancing energy security and mitigating the adverse environmental impacts of fossil fuel reliance.
