America vs. China: The Energy Consumption Battle

America vs. China: The Energy Consumption Battle

It’s no secret that here in the U.S. we consume more than our fair share of energy.  Our abundance of over-sized cars, homes complete with air conditioning and a multitude of mega appliances, as well as our endless need for entertainment make it easy to see why this is the case.  However, according to the International Energy Agency announcement earlier this week, we’ve lost the not-so-popular spot of leading global energy consumer to China.

How has a country that was once so far behind the U.S. caught up at such rapid pace? While the U.S. has had relatively stagnant energy consumption rates over the last 10 years, China has been full speed ahead with intense economic progress and increased industrial growth demanding more energy. This chart (thank you WSJ for the great graphics) showcases the growth of Chinese consumption, beginning in the year 2000. And according to this week’s WSJ article, worldwide recession that crippled the U.S. combined with the progressing Chinese economy has allowed for the shift to the number one spot.

The problem (or one of the problems…) is that our consumption rates – while stagnant – are still astronomical. So despite the fact that China is now (reportedly) the worldwide lead energy consumer, Americans are by no means off the hook, especially when it comes to our individual energy use. As shown here, U.S. per capita energy consumption trumps China’s levels by a margin of 5:1. So with our current American way of life, personified by getting what we want, when we want it, with often lack of regard to the amount of energy required to fuel our consumption drive, it is critical to cut back but is it plausible?

In order to lower our over zealous energy consumption, we need to find creative ways to work together to make it happen, including ways that impact our own personal bottom lines.  Our client, Unitil, has done just that.  Company leaders have worked with state officials, contractors, homeowners, and the like to create an award-winning energy efficiency program that works (stay tuned for details and coverage in local and industry press!).  Collaborative programs such as theirs, which aim to educate as well as provide incentives for consumers, may be the key to reducing American’s individual energy use. The fact of the matter is that this cannot be a solo mission. With so many players involved, governments, utilities and consumers alike must be willing to adapt and make changes in order to progress towards a cleaner, less energy dependent world.