The Energy Picture Today

Interesting facts...

* The United States represents about 5% of the world's population, it controls about 8% of the world's energy resources, and it consumes 25% of the world's energy supplies.

* Energy is a principal commodity of our society, amounting to about 9% of the GNP.

* Total energy used equates to 65% electricity, 26% natural gas, 7% oil and propane and the remaining 2% is wood heat and other renewables.

* From 1976 to 1986, home-energy efficiency increased at an impressive rate, following the energy-price hikes of the mid-1970's. With the rise in energy prices today, energy-efficiency has once again thrust to the forefront.

* Energy efficiency focuses on maximizing the economic benefits of wise energy use. Energy conservation focuses on reducing non-renewable energy use...asking consumers for changes in behavior.

Next Topic: Priorities for Energy Efficiency