In 2025, Minnesota's electricity consumption demonstrated a modest yet meaningful shift towards low-carbon energy sources. More than half of the electricity consumed came from these sustainable sources, including nuclear, wind, and solar energy. Wind power accounted for over a fifth of the total, and nuclear followed closely behind at about 18%, both significant contributors to the low-carbon sector. Solar, though still comprising a smaller share, made up over 5%, showing potential for growth. In contrast, roughly one-third of the state's electricity still relied on fossil fuels, with coal and natural gas contributing nearly equally to this segment. This balance indicates that while progress is being made towards cleaner energy, substantial work remains to further reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Data sources used on this page include EIA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Minnesota?
Electricity consumption in Minnesota is experiencing a slow but steady increase, with recent figures for 2025 at 12,499 kWh per person, up from 12,417 kWh per person in 2023. This growth, albeit modest, signifies a positive trend in electricity usage, with a notable 513 kWh per person rise in low-carbon electricity generation compared to the previous year. The drive to enhance low-carbon generation reflects a broader effort to meet the rising demand for clean energy while addressing environmental concerns. This incremental increase suggests that the state's commitment to expanding its low-carbon footprint is starting to materialize, though continued focus is necessary to sustain this trajectory.
Suggestions
To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Minnesota should focus on expanding its existing nuclear and wind capabilities, given their significant roles in the current energy mix. Looking at successful regions, such as France, Slovakia, and Ukraine, where nuclear energy makes up over half of the electricity generated, Minnesota can learn valuable lessons in nuclear expansion. For wind energy, states like Iowa and South Dakota, with a substantial portion of their electricity sourced from wind, serve as effective models. Additionally, exploring solar energy opportunities, as seen in Nevada and California, could complement these efforts and further diversify Minnesota's energy portfolio. By drawing insights from these regions, Minnesota can drive innovation and investment in its clean energy infrastructure.
History
Historically, Minnesota has seen various changes in its low-carbon electricity generation, particularly in recent years. In 2024, wind energy increased by 0.4 TWh, while hydro contributed an additional 0.1 TWh. However, nuclear energy saw a slight decline of 0.1 TWh, raising some concerns about the sustainability of its output. This slight dip was fortunately countered in 2025 when nuclear energy rebounded with a remarkable increase of 1.4 TWh, alongside a 0.6 TWh rise in wind energy, emphasizing a concerted effort to advance clean energy. Although hydro saw a minor decrease in the same year, the overall trend for low-carbon electricity in Minnesota has been positive, presenting a robust foundation for future technological advancements and cleaner energy policies.
