Which energy source has the highest annual usage in the United States?

The energy source with the highest annual usage in the United States is natural gas. This choice reflects the ongoing trends in the country's energy consumption patterns, which have seen a significant shift towards natural gas due to its abundant availability, relatively lower carbon emissions compared to coal and oil, and the rise of hydraulic fracturing technology.

Natural gas is primarily used for electricity generation, heating, and as a fuel for vehicles, which has contributed to its increased use in recent years. The U.S. has developed extensive natural gas infrastructure, including pipelines and storage facilities, making it a versatile and economically viable option for energy production.

In comparison, while coal and oil have traditionally been heavily utilized energy sources, their share has decreased due to environmental concerns and market shifts towards cleaner energy options. Nuclear energy, while significant in its contributions to the electricity grid, has not reached the usage levels of natural gas in recent years. Thus, natural gas stands out as the energy source with the highest annual consumption in the United States.