The U.S. Energy Information Administration issued its "Today in Energy" article today on changes in U.S. energy consumption. The publication, entitled "Changing U.S. Energy Mix Reflects Growing Use of Natural Gas, Petroleum, and Renewables," focuses on the changes from 2014 to 2015 and the changes are said to "reflect longer-term trends in energy use."
What are the take away points regarding the changes, according to the EIA article?
*Natural Gas:
- Natural gas consumption increased more than any other energy source in 2015.
- Domestic natural gas production continues to reach record levels while prices have remained low.
*Coal:
- Coal consumption reportedly declined by more than 12% in 2015.
- Demand for coal in the power sector in 2015 was down and reportedly reached its lowest level since 1987.
*Petroleum:
- U.S. petroleum consumption grew approximately 2% and exports of U.S. petroleum products reportedly grew, driven by demand in South and Central America.
*Renewable Energy:
- THIS IS THE BIG NEWS....Wind and solar generation expanded significantly in the electric power sector, reportedly growing by 31% and 5%, respectively, in 2015.
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