The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported that renewable energy consumption in the US hit a record high in 2019 following an interrupted growth in the previous four years. According to the EIA, domestic renewable energy demand reached 11.5 quadrillion Btu, accounting for 11% of overall US energy consumption.
Wind energy accounted for around 24% of US renewable energy demand last year. Wind-generated electricity became the most-used renewable energy source in the US on an annual basis in 2019, exceeding hydroelectricity.
Wood and waste energy contributed to around 24% of the nation’s renewable energy use in 2019. Industrial, commercial, and utility customers use wood and waste as fuel to produce goods, as well as to generate heat and electricity. In 2019, roughly 2% of households in the US used wood as their main heat source.
Hydroelectric power made up about 22% of US renewable energy use in 2019. Domestic hydropower demand has remained relatively stagnant since the 1960s. However, it fluctuates depending on seasonal drought and rainfall.
Biofuels accounted for around 20% of US renewable energy demand in 2019. Biofuels, such as ethanol is usually mixed with petroleum-based diesel and gasoline and are consumed as liquid fuels in motor vehicles. Industrial customers contributed to about 36% of biofuel consumption in the US.
Solar energy, including for heat and electricity generation, made up around 9% of US renewable energy use last year. In 2019, solar energy experienced the most significant percentage growth compared to other renewable sources. Solar photovoltaic cells convert sunlight into electricity. Solar heating systems are also installed in some residential and commercial buildings.
