Energy usage wanes in 2009

- Americans are using less energy overall and availing themselves of more renewable energy sources, a report says.

Data released by the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory showed the United States used significantly less coal and petroleum in 2009 than in 2008 while utilizing considerably more wind power.

And while there was a decline in natural gas consumption, solar, hydro and geothermal power use was up, the laboratory said.

"Energy use tends to follow the level of economic activity, and that level declined last year," A.J. Simon, an LLNL energy systems analyst, said.

"At the same time, higher efficiency appliances and vehicles reduced energy use even further," he said. "As a result, people and businesses are using less energy in general."

Wind power increased dramatically in 2009, and since most of that energy is tied directly to electricity generation it helps decrease the use of coal for electricity production, he said.

"The increase in renewables is a really good story, especially in the wind arena," Simon said. "It's a result of very good incentives and technological advancements."