Summary
– LDVs in the United States used more electricity than rail systems in 2023
– U.S. sales of electric vehicles (EVs) have increased, making up 16% of LDV sales in 2023
– Estimated annual electricity consumption by EVs grew to 7,596 GWh in 2023, almost five times the consumption in 2018
– LDV electricity consumption data is based on models and subject to model error
– California accounts for about 85% of electricity consumption by LDVs in the Pacific Census Division, with the highest concentration of EVs in the U.S.
Article
In 2023, Light-duty vehicles (LDV) in the United States consumed more electricity than rail systems for the first time. Estimates from the Electric Power Monthly show that LDV electricity consumption surpassed that of municipal and regional rail systems. U.S. sales of electric vehicles (EVs) have been increasing, accounting for 16% of all LDV sales in 2023. This shift has led to an increase in electricity consumption by EVs, with estimated annual consumption reaching 7,596 GWh in 2023, nearly five times higher than in 2018. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounted for 72% of overall electricity consumption by electric vehicles in 2023.
The data also reveals that the Pacific Census Division in the U.S. consumed the most electricity by EVs in 2023, followed by the South Atlantic and Middle Atlantic Census Divisions. California played a significant role in this electricity consumption, accounting for about 85% of LDV electricity consumption in the Pacific Census Division. The state has the highest concentration of EVs in the country, leading to higher electricity consumption by EVs in California compared to other states. In 2023, 33.9% of U.S. EV electricity consumption was in California, with Florida following at 6.0%.
The methodology used to estimate LDV electricity consumption is based on models and is subject to model error. The U.S. Energy Information Administration is looking to improve its understanding of this model error and is open to feedback on the data, methodology, and potential enhancements. The experimental estimates of LDV electricity consumption are available for national, regional, and state levels starting from 2018. The expansion of EV options and declining prices have contributed to the increased consumption of electricity by EVs. In 2023, BEVs accounted for a majority of the electricity consumed by electric vehicles.
As EV sales continue to rise and more consumers adopt electric vehicles, the demand for electricity to power these vehicles is expected to grow. This shift in transportation energy consumption from traditional fuel sources to electricity has implications for the electric power sector and can impact grid operations and infrastructure planning. Understanding the trends in LDV electricity consumption is crucial for policymakers, utilities, and stakeholders in the energy sector to effectively address the changing dynamics of transportation electrification and its impact on the grid.
The data presented in the Electric Power Monthly highlights the importance of monitoring and analyzing the trends in LDV electricity consumption, especially as EV adoption continues to accelerate. By providing detailed estimates of electricity consumption by EVs at different geographic levels, the U.S. Energy Information Administration aims to support informed decision-making and planning in the energy sector. As the transportation sector transitions towards electrification, tracking the shifting dynamics of electricity consumption by LDVs is essential for ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy future in the United States.
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