Frequently Asked Questions
How much of U.S. carbon dioxide emissions are associated with electricity generation?
Total U.S. energy-related emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) by the electric power sector in 2011 were 2,166 million metric tons, or about 40% of total U.S. energy-related CO2 emissions.
CO2 emissions from U.S. electricity generation by source, 20111
Source | Million Metric Tons | Share of Total |
Coal | 1,718 | 79% |
Natural Gas | 411 | 19% |
Petroleum | 25 | 1% |
Other2 | 11 | 1% |
Total | 2,166 |
1Preliminary 2011 data.
2Miscellaneous wastes and from geothermal power generation.
Learn More:
Monthly Energy Review, Tables 12.1 and 12.6, contain most recent estimates of U.S. energy-related CO2 emissions, total and by the electric power sector.
Electric Power Annual, Table 3.9, contains historical data on CO2 emissions from all electricity generation (conventional power plants and combined-heat-and-power plants).
What are Greenhouse Gases and how much are emitted by the United States?
Emissions of Greenhouse Gases in the United States contains EIA's detailed annual estimates of emissions for all reported greenhouse gases.
Last updated: June 22, 2012
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- How much of U.S. carbon dioxide emissions are associated with electricity generation?
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- What are the energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by source and sector for the United States?
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- Why do carbon dioxide emissions weigh more than the original fuel?