Wind Energy
South Dakota’s vast, open landscapes make it one of the top states for wind energy generation, with 29 wind projects producing a total capacity of 3,476 MW. From early projects like the Chamberlain Wind Project (2.6 MW) in 2001 to more recent installations such as Sweetland Wind (198.8 MW) and North Bend Wind (200.2 MW) in 2023, wind energy has consistently driven economic growth and provided jobs across the state.
Key wind projects include:
These wind farms collectively power over two million homes and continue to position South Dakota as a national leader in renewable wind energy. Learn more about South Dakota’s wind energy projects here.
BioFuels
South Dakota is a critical player in the biofuels industry, producing ethanol, sustainable aviation fuel, and biodiesel. Facilities like the GEVO Plant support the production of sustainable fuels, advancing the state’s role in the renewable fuel market. These biofuel projects reduce carbon emissions and create new economic opportunities for rural areas, benefiting both the agricultural sector and the environment.
Hydrogen Fuel
The Dakota Renewable Hydrogen Project, developed in partnership with the GEVO Plant, represents a pioneering effort to produce clean hydrogen fuel in South Dakota. As hydrogen technology evolves, this project will play a critical role in demonstrating hydrogen’s potential to support a clean energy future and integrate with other renewable energy sources.
Solar Energy
Though still growing, solar energy has started to make its mark in South Dakota. Currently, the state hosts three solar projects with a combined capacity of 209 MW.
Key solar projects include:
Solar energy offers a sustainable solution that complements wind power, providing energy diversity and enhancing grid stability. Explore more about solar energy in South Dakota here.
Grid Storage
Grid storage solutions are essential for ensuring a reliable, resilient power grid in South Dakota. By storing excess energy generated by wind and solar, grid storage technology can balance supply and demand, reduce costs, and enhance the stability of the renewable energy grid. Grid storage also plays a crucial role in maximizing the efficiency and effectiveness of renewable energy sources.
Environmental Impact
Renewable energy projects in South Dakota contribute significantly to environmental sustainability. Clean energy generation in the state has avoided over 10 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions—equivalent to removing more than 2.2 million cars from the road. Additionally, these projects save nearly 5 billion gallons of water annually, reinforcing the environmental value of renewable energy initiatives in South Dakota.