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Natural gas accounts for the highest percentage of electricity generation in the U.S.
Natural gas is the leading energy resource for electricity generation in the United States, surpassing coal, wind, and nuclear power in recent years. It accounts for around 40% of the nation's electricity production. This is due to natural gas's efficiency and relatively lower carbon emissions compared to coal, making it a preferred choice for power plants. The widespread availability of shale gas, combined with advances in drilling technologies such as hydraulic fracturing, has significantly increased natural gas production, helping it become the dominant fuel for electricity generation. As renewable energy sources grow, natural gas remains a critical part of the U.S. energy mix.