Natural gas consumption in the U.S. 1995-2023

Consumption of natural gas in the United States amounted to 32.51 trillion cubic feet in 2021. This was a record high, up from 30.65 trillion cubic feet in 2020. Natural gas consumption increased consistently from 2009 to 2019, after over a decade of fluctuation from 1995 to 2008, before decreasing during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

High demand for natural gas

Natural gas is a colorless, odorless fossil fuel that comes from underground rock formations. It is typically used in the United States to generate electricity and heat homes. The electric power sector is responsible for the largest share of natural gas consumption in the U.S., followed closely by the industrial sector. Consumption of natural gas by the electric power sector has doubled since 2005, but remained lower than industrial sector consumption until 2012.

Fossil fuel consumption overall

Natural gas has the second-highest rate of consumption in the United States following petroleum. After the 2008 Recession, consumption of natural gas has increased more than any other energy source. The use of coal, however, decreased significantly in the past decade as natural gas is seen as a lower-emission alternative and more cost-effective.