Over the last year, from September 2024 to August 2025, North Dakota sourced more than half of its electricity from fossil fuels. Coal dominated this category, contributing to over half of the total electricity supply, while gas accounted for a small fraction. On the other hand, around 42% of the electricity generated was derived from low-carbon sources, showcasing a significant reliance on cleaner energy. Wind energy was by far the largest contributor among the low-carbon sources, making up nearly 37% of the electric grid, while hydropower just about reached 5%. This balance between fossil-based and low-carbon energy reflects a critical transitional phase for North Dakota as it moves towards more sustainable electric options.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in North Dakota?
Despite North Dakota’s efforts toward clean energy, the total electricity consumption in 2025 showed a concerning decline compared to the record levels seen in 2022. The latest figures, with 52,739 kWh per person, indicate a drop of over 4,000 kWh per person from the all-time high in 2022. Correspondingly, low-carbon electricity generation also fell short of its previous peak, diminishing by nearly 1,135 kWh per person. Such declines signal a potential setback in the evolution toward a more energy-intensive future, where increasing electricity demand is anticipated due to innovations like artificial intelligence and broader electrification efforts. Rejuvenating electricity growth, especially from clean sources, is essential for North Dakota to remain resilient and environmentally responsible.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, North Dakota could capitalize on its already potent wind resources, further expanding the capacity to harness this abundant resource. Learning from regions with successful low-carbon initiatives, particularly those with similar profiles, could offer valuable insights. South Dakota and Iowa exemplify strong wind generation, with Iowa producing 60% and South Dakota 57% of their electricity from wind. Furthermore, adopting nuclear energy could prove beneficial; examples include Illinois and New Hampshire, where nuclear makes up more than half of their electricity generation. Additionally, integrating solar solutions, inspired by Nevada or California's sustainable models, could further diversify and reinforce North Dakota's green energy portfolio.
History
Historically, North Dakota has seen a positive trend in low-carbon electricity, largely driven by wind and hydropower. In the late 2000s and early 2010s, the state laid the groundwork for wind energy, which steadily grew with remarkable datasets, such as the significant wind increases in 2010, 2011, 2017, and 2020. Although some years, like 2018 and 2023, saw disruptions or declines in wind energy generation, the overall trajectory remained favorable, showcasing increased capacity over time. Hydropower contributed variably, with notable fluctuations observed between 2010 and 2018. Such advancements underline North Dakota's potential in achieving substantial low-carbon growth, provided consistent strategic efforts are maintained.
