South Dakota has achieved a remarkable feat in electricity generation, with more than four-fifths, precisely 82.55%, of its electricity coming from low-carbon sources. This significant contribution mainly comprises wind energy, which accounts for more than half at 55.74%, and hydropower, contributing nearly a quarter at 24.7%. Fossil sources, on the other hand, make up 17.45% of the electricity, with gas at 9.93% and coal at 7.52%. Solar energy, while still a minor player, contributes close to none, at around 2.03%. Not only does South Dakota excel in its use of clean electricity, but it also stands as a significant net exporter, helping neighboring regions reduce their emissions. Moving forward, the state faces the challenge of electrifying other sectors such as transport, heating, and industry, which will require a substantial increase in electricity generation.

Is Electricity Growing in South Dakota?

Electricity consumption in South Dakota is indeed growing. The total electricity consumption per person reached 23,972 kWh in 2026, surpassing the previous high of 23,392 kWh per person in 2025. This marks an increase of 580 kWh per person, reflecting a positive growth trend. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation per person also saw an uptick, with the 2026 figure at 19,790 kWh, up from the previous record of 19,247 kWh per person in 2025. This growth amounted to an increase of 543 kWh per person, underscoring the expanding contribution of low-carbon sources in the state's electricity mix.

Suggestions

To further increase low-carbon electricity generation, South Dakota can focus on expanding its already successful wind energy sector. Given South Dakota's high potential for wind power and the substantial role it already plays in the state's electricity generation, increasing wind capacity could further augment the clean energy supply. Moreover, investment in scaling solar energy, particularly utility-scale solar projects, can significantly improve its contribution. While wind and hydropower have set impressive benchmarks, the addition of more solar and especially nuclear energy could diversify the state's energy portfolio, ensuring a more stable and sustainable electricity supply. Such efforts would not only support the state's current energy transition but also accommodate increased demand from electrifying other economic sectors.

History

In the last few years, South Dakota has seen considerable shifts in its low-carbon electricity landscape. In 2024, the state experienced a remarkable increase in wind generation, with an additional 2.7 TWh, and a moderate growth in hydropower, adding 0.3 TWh. Continuing into 2025, wind energy saw incremental growth of 0.6 TWh, while hydropower maintained its gradual rise, contributing another 0.3 TWh. By 2026, hydropower further increased by 0.7 TWh, although there was a slight decline in wind energy production by 0.2 TWh. These trends highlight the dynamic nature of South Dakota's clean energy sector, with strong advancements in wind and hydropower despite minor fluctuations, indicating a robust transition toward sustainable electricity generation.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

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