Environment articles
Just the Facts about US energy use, production, and environmental impact
Wind, fossil fuel, solar: Get the facts on how America keeps its lights on. Plus, some good environmental news.
How many energy jobs are there in the US?
In 2024, the energy sector had a workforce of 8.5 million people and a growth rate of 7.5% since 2016 — outpacing US job growth as a whole.
What are the top energy production sources in the US?
Three quarters of US energy production is from fossil fuels, and one quarter is from renewable energy, nuclear energy, and natural gas plant liquids.
How has US energy consumption changed over time?
In 2024, 82% of energy consumption was from fossil fuels, 9% was from nuclear power, and 9% was from renewable energy.
How much solar energy do homes produce?
Small-scale solar energy production grew at its fastest rate ever in 2022.
Is the US energy independent?
In 2019, the US became both a net exporter and net producer of energy for the first time in over 60 years.
How much of America’s clean energy infrastructure is built in the US?
The US lost 80% of its global solar market share from 2009 to 2019.
How much oil and gas comes from federal territory?
Adjustments to the federal land leasing program may change how much energy is produced on federal territory.
What are green banks?
Green banks are financial institutions that leverage both public and private funds to promote the shift toward clean energy.
What does the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) do?
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is a subdivision of the US Department of the Interior responsible for administering public lands in the United States. The agency manages various resources and activities on these lands, including energy development, livestock grazing, recreation, and conservation. It aims to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. It was established in 1946.
How does nuclear fusion work, and why is the US investing in it?
While the science is still developing, nuclear fusion has the potential to alter the clean energy landscape.
What are the main sources of US greenhouse gas emissions?
In 2022, 7,615 individual facilities were responsible for over 42% of total US emissions.
What is carbon capture and storage?
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) involves separating and capturing carbon dioxide (CO₂) from industrial emissions before it is released into the atmosphere.
How much oil is produced in the US?
Since 2018, the US has been the largest producer of crude oil in the world.
Did releasing oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve impact gas prices?
A Treasury Department analysis showed releases from the reserve contributed to a 13 to 31 cent per gallon decrease in the price of gas through July. But prices have risen in recent months.
How much electricity would it take to power all cars if they were electric?
The US would need to produce 20-50% more electricity annually if all cars were electric vehicles.
What is the most common vehicle fuel type in each state?
Thirty-three million vehicles across the US rely on alternative fuels — which includes more than just electricity.
How many electric cars are on the road in the United States?
About 1.4 million electric-drive vehicles of all types were sold in 2021, 88% more than in 2020.
How many dams does America have?
The average age of a dam in the United States is 61 years, leaving them susceptible to structural failure risks.
How have oil prices changed in the US?
Oil prices have historically risen over time, but the last two decades have been particularly volatile.
91% of households nationwide have air conditioning. 44% of those in Seattle do.
The recent heatwave hit some of the least air-conditioned cities in the country.
How many electric vehicle charging stations are there in the US?
Despite the rising number of charging stations, the US will need to ramp up installations to meet demand by 2030.