In 2018, emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) by the U.S. electric power sector were 1,763 million metric tons (MMmt), or about 33% of total U.S. energy-related CO2 emissions of 5,269 (MMmt).1
CO2 emissions by U.S. electric power sector by source, 2018
Source | Million metric tons | Share of sector total |
Coal | 1,150 | 65% |
Natural gas | 581 | 33% |
Petroleum | 21 | 1% |
Other2 | 11 | <1% |
Total | 1,763 |
1 Includes CO2 emissions from the combustion of miscellaneous waste materials made from fossil fuels and by some types of geothermal power generation.
Learn more:
Monthly Energy Review, Tables 12.1 and 12.6 contain the most recent estimates of monthly and annual U.S. energy-related CO2 emissions, total and by the electric power sector.
U.S. Energy-Related Carbon Dioxide Emissions
State Carbon Dioxide Emissions Data
Energy Explained: Where Greenhouse Gases Come From
Last updated: October 25, 2019