Organic chemicals (ethylene, propylene, and many others) have by far the highest energy requirements of all chemical sectors, accounting for about 42% of total industry energy use. More than 35% of energy consumed in organic chemicals manufacturing is in the form of energy feedstocks (natural gas and LPG). Feedstocks also represent a large share of energy used in production of plastics and agricultural chemicals. Inorganic chemicals are made from ores, air, and water and thus require little or no feedstock energy. [MECS 1998]

Fuel Energy Consumption by Sector – 1998

Source: MECS 1998

* Primarily energy used for heat and power