Every October, the United States celebrates National Energy Awareness Month, which helps raise awareness about energy production, consumption and conservation. Established by a 1991 presidential proclamation, this observance encourages individuals, businesses and policymakers to focus on how energy impacts their lives, the economy and the environment. As energy becomes an increasingly critical issue in the U.S. and globally, it’s important to recognize the evolving trends and how they influence our daily lives.
WHAT IS NATIONAL ENERGY AWARENESS MONTH?
National Energy Awareness Month was created to highlight the importance of energy efficiency, renewable energy, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Over the past three decades, this initiative has grown to include broader conversations about energy independence, innovation, and the transition to cleaner, more sustainable power sources.
Former President George Bush wrote within his proclamation, “Safe, reliable, and affordable sources of energy are vital not only to our personal mobility and comfort but also to our Nation’s productivity and security. America’s utility companies and other energy providers supply the light, heat, and power that are needed to operate our factories and farms, our schools and defense installations, and other places of work.”
The purpose of this month is to promote a better understanding of energy challenges to consumers while also highlighting the importance of energy conservation, emerging technologies and smart energy choices that benefit the environment.
ENERGY TRENDS
The energy landscape in the U.S. has shifted dramatically over the past several years, driven by technological advances, regulatory changes and market demands. These include:
- Growth of Renewable Energy – Renewable energy, particularly wind and solar power, has experienced substantial growth. In 2023, renewable energy accounted for approximately 23% of the total electricity generation in the U.S., up from 18% in 2018. Solar power has expanded rapidly, with rooftop installations becoming more accessible to homeowners and wind farms contributing significantly to rural economies. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), renewables are expected to surpass coal by 2024 as a primary source of energy generation.
- Decline of Coal – Once the dominant source of electricity, coal steadily declined. In 2022, coal represented only 20% of electricity generation, a significant drop from more than 50% in the early 2000s. This is due to regulatory pressures, competition from cheaper natural gas and the rise of renewables.
- Dominance of Natural Gas – In the U.S., natural gas has become the largest source of electricity generation, accounting for 43% in 2023. This shift was driven by the shale gas boom, which made natural gas an affordable and cleaner-burning alternative to coal.
- Energy Efficiency: Energy efficiency initiatives have become a significant focus across industries and households. Smart thermostats, LED lighting and energy-efficient appliances have empowered consumers to reduce their energy consumption and costs. On a national scale, energy efficiency programs have reduced total energy consumption, even as the population and economy have grown.
TYPES OF ENERGY USED TODAY
The U.S. energy mix includes a diverse range of renewable and non-renewable sources, which include the following:
- Fossil Fuels: Natural gas, oil and coal dominate the energy market, at 60% of U.S. electricity production.
- Renewables: Solar, wind, hydropower and geothermal energy are gaining prominence, with renewables being 21.5% of U.S. electricity production.
- Nuclear Energy: Nuclear power accounts for about 19% of U.S. electricity generation.
WHY ENERGY AWARENESS MATTERS
National Energy Awareness Month reminds us that energy choices affect not just our budgets but also the environment and future generations. By embracing energy-efficient practices and supporting clean energy initiatives, we can each contribute to shaping a more sustainable and secure energy future.
