Over the last 12 months, from September 2024 to August 2025, South Dakota has made commendable strides in its electricity consumption patterns, with more than 80% of its electricity sourced from low-carbon origins. This remarkable achievement is largely attributed to wind energy, which contributes over half of the state's electricity at 56.5%, and hydropower, responsible for just over 23%. Fossil fuels account for less than one-fifth of the electricity, around 17%, with coal and gas each contributing roughly 8%. Solar energy, while still a minor component, is starting to make its presence felt with just over 2%. Despite these figures, South Dakota remains a significant net exporter of electricity, effectively helping neighboring regions in reducing their carbon emissions. To further this positive trajectory, the next challenge lies in electrifying sectors such as transport, heating, and industry to meet future energy demands.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in South Dakota?
There is evidence of growing electricity consumption in South Dakota. In 2025, the state's per-person electricity consumption reached a new peak of 23,476 kWh, surpassing the previous high of 22,580 kWh in 2024 by 895 kWh. This increase is paralleled in the sphere of low-carbon electricity generation, which also reached a new record of 19,181 kWh per person, rising by 753 kWh from the previous year's record. These figures highlight a growing reliance on low-carbon energy, pointing to an encouraging trend where cleaner electricity supports increasing demands.
Suggestions
To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, South Dakota can capitalize on its existing strengths in wind energy, which are already producing substantial electricity. Expanding wind energy infrastructure could allow the state to further improve its clean energy portfolio. Additionally, considering the outstanding success of wind energy, exploring the potential for increased solar energy deployment would make sense, especially given its nascent but promising contribution. By promoting the development of these low-carbon technologies, South Dakota can solidify its leadership in sustainable electricity production.
History
Reflecting on the history of low-carbon electricity in South Dakota, significant developments were noted in both the wind and hydro sectors. In the early 2010s, wind energy saw incremental boosts, like in 2010 and 2011, with increases of around 1 to 1.3 TWh, while hydro fluctuated in its output but contributed roughly similar gains. The early 2020s, notably, marked a rapid ascent in wind energy, with 2020 witnessing an enormous boost of almost 3 TWh and 2021 following with nearly 4 TWh. Although hydro power faced several setbacks with periodic decreases in production, the persistent advancements in wind energy secured South Dakota's reputation as a leader in clean electricity generation. By continuously advancing clean technologies, South Dakota can remain a pioneer in the transition to a low-carbon electricity future.
