Over the past year, spanning from June 2024 to May 2025, Minnesota has seen its electricity sourced significantly from both low-carbon and fossil fuel-based generation. A little over 46% of the electricity is generated using low-carbon methods, indicating a meaningful commitment to sustainable energy sources. Wind energy leads the way within this group, contributing over 22% of the total electricity, followed by nuclear power, which provides more than 18% of the state’s electricity. Solar and hydropower account for nearly 4% and 1%, respectively, while biofuels make up close to 2%. On the other hand, fossil fuels still hold a substantial share, accounting for 37% of the electricity production, driven largely by gas and coal, each contributing around 18-19%. Net imports, making up approximately 15%, intricate the state's energy tapestry further, balancing local generation needs with supply from outside the state.
Is Electricity Growing in Minnesota?
When examining electricity consumption trends within Minnesota, it is apparent that total electricity use has seen a downward shift. The latest data indicates an average consumption of 11,907 kWh per person in 2025, showing a significant drop from the historic peak of 13,801 kWh per person recorded in 2008. This reduction of nearly 1,900 kWh per person could reflect improvements in energy efficiency or changes in economic or lifestyle factors. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation per person has decreased slightly from its peak of 5,912 kWh per person in 2022, now standing at 5,593 kWh per person. This decline of about 319 kWh suggests a need for renewed focus and strategies to expand this critical sector.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation in Minnesota, the state should consider building upon its existing strengths by further expanding both nuclear and wind capacities, given their already substantial contributions. Learning from similar successes in regions and states can offer valuable insights. For instance, Iowa and South Dakota have commendably high wind energy shares of 62% and 60%, respectively, demonstrating the potential for further wind energy development in Minnesota. Likewise, France and Slovakia are prominent examples of countries where nuclear energy constitutes a majority of their low-carbon electricity generation, suggesting that Minnesota could benefit greatly from enhancing its nuclear capabilities. Additionally, Minnesota could look to Illinois, where 52% of electricity is derived from nuclear energy, illustrating the potential for regional growth in this sector. By drawing lessons from these successful efforts, Minnesota could more effectively enhance its low-carbon electricity portfolio.
History
Looking back at Minnesota’s history in low-carbon electricity development, both challenges and successes shine through. In the mid-2000s, wind energy experienced a remarkable ascent, growing by 0.8 TWh in 2005 and a notable 1.7 TWh in 2008. However, nuclear generation fluctuated, with early setbacks such as a 0.6 TWh drop in 2009 and larger decreases like the 1.5 TWh in 2011 and 1.2 TWh in 2013. Positive strides were seen when nuclear generation increased by 2 TWh in 2014 and 1.8 TWh in 2016, showcasing moments of recovery and growth. Yet, recent declines, such as a 2.8 TWh reduction in 2023 for nuclear and a 0.7 TWh drop in wind, indicate areas requiring attention. Despite these fluctuations, there was promising progress in 2025 with an increase in nuclear generation and wind energy reaching commendable heights in 2022 with a surge of 2.8 TWh, reflecting a robust commitment to fostering a sustainable future.