How much of U.S. carbon dioxide emissions are associated with electricity generation?
In 2022, emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) by the U.S. electric power sector were 1,539 million metric tons (MMmt), or about 31% of total U.S. energy-related CO2 emissions of about 4,964 (MMmt).
| Source | Million metric tons | Share of total |
|---|---|---|
| Coal | 847 | 55% |
| Natural gas | 661 | 43% |
| Petroleum | 20 | 1% |
| Other1 | 11 | <1% |
| 1 Includes CO2 emissions from the combustion of waste materials made from fossil fuels and by some types of geothermal power plants. Source: Monthly Energy Review, April 2023; preliminary data | ||
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Articles on CO2 emissions
How do I convert between short tons and metric tons?
Monthly Energy Review, Tables 11.1 and 11.6 contain the most recent estimates of monthly and annual U.S. energy-related CO2 emissions, total and by the electric power sector.
U.S. CO2 emissions from energy consumption by source and sector (diagram)
U.S. Energy-Related Carbon Dioxide Emissions
State-level carbon dioxide emissions data
Energy Explained: Where Greenhouse Gases Come From
Last updated: May 1, 2023, with most recent data available.