Energy usage wanes in 2009
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."
Related News
Alberta sets new electricity usage record during deep freeze
CALGARY - Albertans are cranking up their thermostats and blasting heat into their homes at overwhelmingly high rates as the deep freeze continues.
It’s so cold that the province set a new all-time record Tuesday evening for electricity usage.
According to the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO), 11,729 MW of power was used around 7 p.m. Tuesday, passing the previous record set in January of last year by 31 MW.
Temperatures reached a low of -29 C in Calgary on Tuesday while Edmonton saw a low of -30 C, according to Environment Canada. Wind chill made it feel closer to -40.
“That increase —…
