Over the last year, from September 2024 to August 2025, North Dakota's electricity consumption predominantly relied on fossil fuels, contributing to more than half of the electricity consumed with coal alone accounting for most of it. Low-carbon energy sources, however, comprised a significant portion, with wind energy contributing almost all of this share, reflecting substantial investment in this area. Minor contributions from gas and hydropower highlight the ongoing reliance on diverse energy sources, although clean energy continues to present a strong base for future development. This balance between fossil fuels and low-carbon sources signals a dynamic energy landscape with room for improvement in reducing carbon emissions and increasing sustainability.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in North Dakota?
Currently, North Dakota's electricity consumption appears to be on a downward trajectory. In 2025, consumption per person was slightly more than 52,000 kWh, marking almost a 4,000 kWh decrease from the record set in 2022. Notably, low-carbon electricity generation has also seen a decline, reducing to around 22,000 kWh per person from over 23,000 kWh in 2022. This downturn is concerning, especially given the global need to combat climate change and the increasing importance of decarbonization. Such a reduction in both overall and low-carbon consumption highlights the urgent need for North Dakota to reinvigorate its efforts in expanding electricity use, particularly from clean sources.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, North Dakota can benefit from the expansion of its wind energy infrastructure, which has already proven itself as a reliable contributor. Emulating successful electricity strategies from other regions can pave the way for improvement. For example, Iowa's remarkable wind energy achievement demonstrates the potential of this technology. Additionally, looking at nuclear-generated electricity shares in states like Illinois and South Carolina could inspire the inclusion and expansion of nuclear power in North Dakota. This diversification, mixed with insights from solar-rich regions such as Nevada and California, can form a comprehensive approach towards a thriving, low-carbon electricity framework.
History
In the early 2000s, North Dakota embarked on a notable journey toward increasing its low-carbon electricity generation, marked by significant advances in wind power. Particularly during the years 2008-2011, and again from 2014 onwards, growth was steady with multiple years witnessing over 1 TWh increases. Though there were minor setbacks in individual years, such as slight declines in 2013 and again in 2018 and 2023, the overall trend remains positive, especially in recent years with a recovery in 2025. This historical context showcases a resilient commitment to wind energy, and the expansions underscore the importance of continuing to build upon these foundations to foster a more substantial low-carbon electricity generation future.
