Energy Production, Use, and Vulnerability to Climate Change in the Southeast USA

Abstract

The southeastern USA is home to large and varied, though unevenly concentrated, energy resource reserves, including coal, gas, and oil as well as renewable energy sources such as solar, biomass, and wind. In addition to being one of the most important domestic producers of energy in the United States, it is also one of the biggest users. Key Findings  At approximately 27% of the USA total, the Southeast (SE) consumes more energy as a region and per person than any other NCA region.  Energy consumption in the SE in 2009 was dominated by the industrial sector (31%) and transportation (28%), both of which are higher than the national average.  Residential use accounted for 23% of SE energy consumption while commercial activity consumed 18%, both of which are lower than the national average.  As the climate changes, concerns exist for energy services in the SE due to the potential for changing patterns of demand, such as increased demand for air conditioning, as well as the potential impacts on electricity generating capacity and energy distribution infrastructure.  An improved ability to project climate change and its impacts at a more local level, a better understanding of changing regional patterns of energy use, and enhanced strategies to improve the resiliency of energy supply systems are just a few of the areas that will be needed to ensure energy supplies in the SE.