Do You Know What the #1 Fuel for Generating Electricity Is?

COAL IS THE #1 FUEL FOR GENERATING ELECTRICITY IN THE U.S. 

I was taken by surprise to learn that coal represents 48.6% of the mix of fuels used to generate electricity! I thought it was something from days gone by, used infrequently, and in places where there weren't alternatives. I didn't realize that it is still the most predominantly used fuel for electricity generation, with natural gas at 21.4%, nuclear 19.4%, and hydropower, fuel oil, and non-hydro renewables making up the remaining 11%.

Visit this website. It's fascinating and interactive. You can see the pie charts showing the specirfic breakdown of fuel mix, but interestingly you can click on any state on the U.S. map and get the pie chart of fuel mix specific to that state. I think you'll be surprised at the differences for each state. For example, did you know that Washington use 75% hydropower and 8.6% nuclear? New Mexico uses 86% coal? Vermont 75% nuclear? You can also learn about each fuel source and developing technologies for the future.

Here's the link: http://www.getenergyactive.org/fuel/mix.htm

Be well! Be happy!

Louise