Frequently Asked Questions
What is U.S. electricity generation by energy source?
In 2011, the United States generated about 4,106 billion kilowatthours of electricity. About 68% of the electricity generated was from fossil fuel (coal, natural gas, and petroleum), with 42% attributed from coal.
Energy sources and percent share of total for electricity generation in 2011:
- Coal 42%
- Natural Gas 25%
- Nuclear 19%
- Hydropower 8%
-
Other Renewable 5%
- Biomass 1.38%
- Geothermal 0.41%
- Solar 0.04%
- Wind 2.92%
- Petroleum 1%
- Other Gases < 1%
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Last updated: June 26, 2012
Other FAQs about Electricity
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