As energy debates evolve, the focus remains on oil, especially in states like North Dakota, which is a leading producer in the U.S. However, alongside traditional energy, sustainable energy is gaining traction across states. A recent analysis by Milliken ranks North Dakota 15th in sustainable energy production, just ahead of Minnesota (17th) and South Dakota (22nd). Montana, however, stands out in 2nd place.

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Milliken’s analysis draws on data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2022 County Business Patterns and the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s 2023 Electricity dataset. They calculated sustainable energy-focused businesses as a percentage of all energy production businesses, defining “sustainable” as carbon pollution-free electricity. This includes nuclear, hydroelectric, wind, solar, and geothermal sources, per the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS).

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north dakota renewable energy

Besides quantifying energy businesses, Milliken evaluated employment and payroll shares within sustainable energy sectors. They also assessed changes in sustainable energy production from 2018 to 2023 and identified each state's largest sustainable energy source. Montana's high ranking reflects substantial use of hydroelectric power, while wind energy is a major player in North Dakota and solar in Minnesota.

Milliken emphasizes that sustainable energy impacts extend beyond carbon reduction, encompassing biodiversity, local communities, and fair worker wages. As sustainable energy evolves in the Midwest, these social factors may shape future strategies, blending environmental responsibility with community-focused energy policies.

This regional movement toward sustainability signals a shift in the Midwest's energy landscape—one that may eventually balance the scales between traditional oil production and renewable, community-minded energy solutions.

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