How much of U.S. carbon dioxide emissions are associated with electricity generation?

In 2019, emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) by the U.S. electric power sector were 1,619 million metric tons (MMmt), or about 32% of total U.S. energy-related CO2 emissions of 5,131 (MMmt).¹

CO2 emissions by U.S. electric power sector by source, 2019

Source	Million metric tons	Share of sector total
Coal	973	60%
Natural gas	619	38%
Petroleum	16	1%
Other2	11	<1%
Total	1,619

¹ Preliminary data for 2019. 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 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. Energy-Related Carbon Dioxide Emissions
State Carbon Dioxide Emissions Data
Energy Explained: Where Greenhouse Gases Come From

Last updated: May 26, 2020

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