US renewable energy consumption reaches ‘record high’ in 2020

Latest statistics reveal renewable energy was the only source of US energy consumption that increased last year from 2019 – fossil fuel and nuclear power usage both declined

Consumption of renewable energy in the US grew for the fifth year in a row, reaching a “record high” in 2020.

That’s according to latest statistics from the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), which states renewable energy usage reached 11.6 quadrillion British thermal units (Btu) or 12% of total US energy consumption.

It adds renewable energy was the only source of US energy consumption that increased last year from 2019 – as fossil fuel and nuclear power usage declined.

Wind energy accounted for around 26% of US renewable energy consumption in 2020, surpassing hydroelectricity in 2019 to become the single most-consumed source of renewables on an annual basis.

Consumption of wind energy saw a 14% growth last year from 2019.

Hydroelectric power and wood and waste energy both accounted for around 22% of US renewable energy consumption in 2020, biofuels accounted for around 17% while solar energy accounted for around 11%.

US biofuel consumption fell 11% from 2019, as overall transportation sector energy use declined during the COVID-19 pandemic, however, solar usage increased 22% last year from 2019.

Make sure you check out the latest Net Hero Podcast episode:

Net zero is a way to cut your costs and help the planet, so what’s stopping you? Often, it’s just the right help and advice. That’s what we will provide at the Big Zero Show this July. Workshops, expert speakers, case studies and exhibitions. Plus, networking with 1500 peers and potential customers. Register for free now.


Latest Podcast