EIA: U.S. Per Capita CO2 Emissions Down 30% Since 2005

MIAMI, FL (DTN) –Per capita carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from energy use fell in every U.S. state between 2005 and 2023 as coal-fired generation declined and was replaced by natural gas, wind, and solar, the U.S. Energy Information Administration said Monday. Overall, U.S. energy-related CO2 emissions dropped by 20% while population grew by 14%, resulting in a 30% per-person decline.

The shift came largely from reduced coal use in the power sector, replaced by natural gas and growing wind and solar generation. Maryland led the nation with a 49% per capita reduction, recording the lowest emissions of any state at 7.8 metric tons in 2023. The District of Columbia maintained the lowest level overall at 3.6 metric tons.

Transportation was the largest source of CO2 emissions in 28 states last year, overtaking power generation in many coastal regions where coal plants closed. The power sector remained the top source in 18 states, mostly net electricity exporters with heavy coal generation, while industrial activity dominated in four energy-intensive states.

Nationwide, power sector emissions have fallen more quickly than transportation since peaking in 2007. The EIA projects a modest 1% increase in total U.S. CO2 emissions in 2025, reflecting higher fossil fuel use from crude oil production and growing electricity demand.