The electric power sector emitted less carbon dioxide in April than in any other month since 1988, according to the Energy Information Administration. Natural gas electricity generation surpassed that of coal in April, despite the fact that there was more coal used for electricity than natural gas. EIA noted that April is typically lowest month for CO2 emissions due to mild weather.
EIA also said nuclear power generation increased 3% and renewable energy generation increased 2% year-over-year in the first quarter of 2015. Wind generation fell by 7%, but hydroelectric generation increased by the same amount.
Natural gas and renewables have gained considerably relative to coal since 1988. Natural gas consumption has more than tripled, renewable energy has more than doubled and nuclear energy has increased by 47%. Meanwhile, coal consumption has fallen by 17%.
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