Spatial Distribution of Fuel Spatial Distribution of Fuel Usage: Past and PresentUsage: Past and Present

Based on a Per Person Based on a Per Person AnalysisAnalysis

Nuclear Nuclear EnergyEnergy

1960

South Carolina

2003

Illinois

The use of nuclear energy has grown over the last 30 years, mostly in the eastern and southeastern states. As concerns grow over global climate change, it is likely that the number of nuclear plants will increase.

Geothermal EnergyGeothermal Energy

1960 2003

Vermont Nevada

Geothermal energy use for generating electricity is still a relatively new concept, as shown by the pictures above. There are only a few states who are taking advantage of this vast source of energy.

Hydroelectric EnergyHydroelectric Energy

1960 2003

Washington

Oregon

There are only a few states who produce a large portion of their power using hydroelectric power plants. These states are located in the northwestern United States, where there are plenty of water sources and mountains to provide the power.

Coal EnergyCoal Energy

1960 2003

Wyoming West Virginia

The majority of coal energy use in the past has been in the Ohio River Valley. Recently, there has been a major spike in the coal consumption in the west, namely Wyoming and North Dakota. The usage has also increased across most of the states across the country.

All Petroleum ProductsAll Petroleum Products

1960 2003

Nevada

Louisiana

The states with the most petroleum use were those in the far north and north east in 1960. Through 2003, the usage in these states remained relatively constant, but the usage in other states increased more dramatically.

Natural Gas EnergyNatural Gas Energy

1960 2003

Louisiana Texas

In 1960, the majority of natural gas users were located in the southwestern and mountain states. Presently, the use is much more spread out across the country.

HydroGeoNatural GasPetroleumCoalNuclear

General Overview MapGeneral Overview Map

Summary of Spatial Summary of Spatial DistributionDistribution• The distribution of fuel usage is largely The distribution of fuel usage is largely

determined by the natural resources availabledetermined by the natural resources available– Hydroelectric: NorthwestHydroelectric: Northwest– Nuclear: East CoastNuclear: East Coast– Petroleum: Mainly East Coast and Ohio River ValleyPetroleum: Mainly East Coast and Ohio River Valley– Coal: Ohio River Valley, Great Plains, and Far NorthCoal: Ohio River Valley, Great Plains, and Far North– Natural Gas: Mainly Southern States, but widespreadNatural Gas: Mainly Southern States, but widespread– Geothermal: West Coast and NortheastGeothermal: West Coast and Northeast