Americans using more energy according to Lawrence Livermore analysis

Apr. 1, 2014

Americans using more energy according to Lawrence Livermore analysis

Anne M Stark,, 925-422-9799


Each year, the Laboratory releases energy flow charts that illustrate the nation's consumption and use of energy. Overall, Americans used 2.3 quadrillion thermal units more in 2013 than the previous year.








Petroleum use increased in 2013 from the previous year. Simon estimates that, with oil prices remaining relatively constant, this is likely due to the modest economic expansion. However,"The increase isn't as sharp as it might have been because Americans are buying more efficient cars, which are slowly replacing older, less efficient automobiles.."

Rejected energy increased to 59 quads in 2013 from 58.1 in 2012, rising in proportion to the total energy consumed. "Not all of the energy that we consume is put to use," Simon explained. "Heat you feel when you put your hand on your water heater and the warm exhaust from your car's tailpipe are examples of rejected energy." Comparing energy services to rejected energy gives a rough estimate of each sector's energy efficiency.

See the 2013 U.S. energy flow chart.