U.S. total energy production increases for sixth year in a row
The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) announced on Monday that total U.S. energy production increased for the sixth consecutive year, according to the EIA’s most recent Monthly Energy Review report.
The report found that U.S. energy production last year reached 89 quadrillion British thermal units (Btu), a record high. Despite a 10 percent decrease in coal production, overall U.S. production increased due mostly to increases in liquid fuels production. Crude oil production increased by eight percent, while natural gas plant liquids and natural gas production increased by nine and five percent, respectively.
According to the report, rates of renewable energy output and nuclear electric power production remained relatively level compared to previous years. Within renewable energy production, however, the EIA report showed a shift among the production of types of fuels. There was an increase in wind and solar electricity generation, while hydroelectric generation declined steadily.
The study also found that net U.S. primary energy imports fell for the 10th consecutive year. U.S. energy imports increased by two percent, but exports increase by six percent, resulting in a net import decline. The study also showed that approximately 71 percent of all U.S. energy exports fell under the umbrella of petroleum products.
Overall, the study found carbon dioxide emissions decreased last year compared to rates in 2013 and 2014. Replacing coal with natural gas was cited as the primary reason for the decrease in emissions.
